Two U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II jets executed a historic landing on a highway in Finland on Wednesday as part of the Finnish Air Force’s annual road base exercise, dubbed BAANA 2024.
The 48th Fighter Wing of the Royal Air Force Lakenheath was assigned to the two U.S. aircraft. The maneuver showed the NATO Alliance’s ability to deploy airpower in unconventional locations.
BAANA 24 is the annual road base exercise, and the Finnish Air Force regularly trains outside its main operating bases to be able to quickly disperse aircraft across Finland if necessary. The activities prepare the military branch for battle from anywhere, according to a press release from the Finnish military.
Landings and take-offs must be performed at a road base.
Two F-35s participated in an exercise to improve the integration of allied forces.
It also reflects our collective readiness and agility. This also reflects the collective agility and readiness of our forces.
U.S. and Finnish airmen have been able to share their experiences since Finland joined NATO.
The Finnish Air Force took part in a Ramstein Air Superiority Exercise in Germany in June as one of nine air forces.
During the event, pilots used their aircraft to simulate air combat.
