Published: Just now
An American B-52 bomber flew over the Gulf of Finland last Saturday evening, Finnish media reports. It attracts attention – such a plane has never before been sighted in Finnish airspace, writes news agency STT.
The giant plane came from Poland and flew towards the Russian island of Hogland – but turned around shortly before and then flew towards the Baltic countries. The island is located about 40 kilometers from the coast of Finland.
Henri Vanhanen, researcher at the Institute for Foreign Policy, says the flight demonstrates NATO’s commitment to the region’s security.
– With the flight, you demonstrate to Russia that here we are, alert and awake, he tells STT.
Becoming more common
Vanhanen believes that this type of show of force will become more prominent in the next few years due to the tightened security situation.
According to Vanhanen, Sweden already allowed B-52 bombers to fly in the country’s airspace several years ago. However, it is the first time that this type of plane has flown in Finnish airspace.
Finland has also very likely been offered the possibility of the bomber’s presence in the past – but no particular need has been seen.
– In addition, they have probably been seen as a provocation against Russia.
Strategically important
The head of the Institute for Foreign Policy, Mika Aaltola, also comments on the incident. On Twitter, he says the B-52’s flight over the Gulf of Finland sends a clear message.
“The Gulf of Finland is one of Europe’s most strategically important narrow straits where Russia has increased its activity, for example on Hogland. This is how you de facto take care of your allies and send a message of intimidation,” he writes.
Earlier this week, EPN also reported on increased Russian activity on Hogland since 2014, when Russia, in violation of international law, annexed the Crimean Peninsula.
Furthermore, Aaltola writes that the flight is a response to Russia’s “increased provocative activities from Alaska to the Arctic”.