Sweden's Supreme Commander Affirms Readiness to Shoot Down Intruding Russian Planes

Sweden Prepared to Defend Airspace with Force

Sweden's Supreme Commander, Michael Claesson, has stated that the Swedish military may shoot down intruding aircraft as a last resort to defend its airspace. This declaration underscores a firm stance by the newly joined NATO member against potential airspace violations, particularly in the wake of increased regional tensions. Claesson emphasized that the ultimate decision to engage an intruding aircraft would rest with the pilot facing the threat to the Swedish border.

Context of Heightened Tensions and Recent Violations

The statements from Commander Claesson, made around September 28-29, 2025, come amidst a series of recent airspace incursions by Russian aircraft and drones over NATO territories. On September 19, 2025, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets reportedly entered Estonian airspace for 12 minutes. Other incidents include Russian drones entering Polish territory and incursions over Romania and Denmark. These actions are widely perceived by European leaders as Russia testing NATO's resolve and seeking to exploit perceived weaknesses.

Legal Framework and Official Stance

Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson had previously articulated a similar position around September 23, 2025, stating that Sweden would defend its airspace 'by force if necessary' and 'with or without warning'. This policy is formalized under Sweden's IKFN directive, a legal framework that provides the Swedish Armed Forces with instructions on how to handle intruding aircraft, including the right to use weapons. Claesson clarified that if an intruding aircraft 'does not obey orders, the ultimate measure is the possibility of using force: first to identify, and then to open effective fire. In other words, to shoot down.'

NATO Membership and Regional Implications

Sweden's accession to NATO in March 2024 has significantly influenced its defense posture, aligning it more closely with other alliance members. The country's firm position echoes similar warnings from Poland and the United Kingdom, which have also declared a zero-tolerance policy for Russian airspace violations. While acknowledging the risk of escalation, Commander Claesson expressed his belief that Russia's primary objective is not to initiate war with NATO, but rather to 'divide NATO politically, expose our weaknesses, exploit them and sow fear among our population.' Sweden's commitment to defending its sovereign airspace, supported by its advanced Saab JAS 39 Gripen multirole fighters, signals a clear message that the Baltic skies are no longer open to ambiguity.