Swedish Air Force Initiates NATO Air Policing Mission in Iceland

Historic Deployment from Keflavík

The Swedish Air Force officially began its NATO air policing operations from Keflavík Air Base, Iceland, on February 4, 2026. This deployment represents a significant milestone as it is Sweden's first leadership role in a NATO Air Policing mission and its initial deployment of this nature since becoming a member of the Alliance in March 2024. The mission is scheduled to continue until mid-March 2026.

A contingent of six JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft, accompanied by approximately 110 personnel, including flight crews, air traffic controllers, and maintenance staff, has been stationed at Keflavík. The personnel are primarily drawn from the Skaraborg Air Wing F 7.

Safeguarding Icelandic Airspace

The primary objective of NATO Air Policing is to maintain the integrity and security of Allied airspace. Given that Iceland does not possess its own standing air force, NATO member states rotate the responsibility of providing peacetime air surveillance and interception capabilities. This particular rotation marks Iceland's 55th such mission.

Operations are meticulously coordinated with NATO command and control centers, including those located in Uedem, Germany. Beyond routine surveillance, these forces are also prepared to assist civilian aircraft in distress.

Strategic Importance and Integration

Lieutenant Colonel Johan Legardt, the Contingent Commander, emphasized the mission's importance, stating, 'The mission is aimed at the collective defence of Icelandic airspace, and it feels good to be able to contribute.' He also noted that the deployment would be utilized to test new operational methods, including the integration of information on space weather and space activity into decision-making processes.

Iceland's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, underscored the broader implications of Sweden's participation, remarking that it 'demonstrates how NATO membership strengthens defence cooperation and security.' This deployment highlights Sweden's increasing operational integration into the Alliance.

Concurrent Activities

During their deployment, the Swedish forces will also engage in training flights at alternate airports in Akureyri and Egilsstaðir. The mission at Keflavík coincides with other NATO activities in the region, including ongoing anti-submarine patrols off Iceland's coast and the presence of the Danish Air Force in connection with Exercise Noble Defender.