Increased air patrols for Russian planes in Denmark

Denmark’s defense Quick Reaction Alert has experienced increased activity over the past months, being activated 31 times since the start of the year, compared to 55 times throughout 2023. The defense minister, Troels Lund Poulsen, mentioned the rise of Russian intelligence activities in the Baltic Sea, particularly around large NATO exercises and following Sweden and Finland’s NATO inclusion. Although there has been no airspace violation since the Russian activities occurred in international airspace, Denmark closely monitors the situation and responds with Quick Reaction Alert flights. The cooperation with NATO allies remains robust, ensuring vigilance over the areas of interest. Danish airspace was last breached by Russian aircraft twice in 2021 and once in 2022.