Sweden is set to significantly ramp up its role within NATO by monitoring the alliance's sensitive eastern border, as confirmed by NATO's Air Force Chief in Europe, James B.

Hecker.

The Swedish Air Force, which has already been active in identifying Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea, will soon be placed under NATO command for Air Policing missions.

These missions, critical for the security of the alliance's eastern flank, involve the rapid identification of foreign aircraft near NATO territory.

The move, expected to occur by the end of spring, marks Sweden's increasing integration into NATO operations, despite the need for enhanced encrypted communication systems for full interoperability.

This development comes as NATO continuously patrols the skies over the Baltic Sea to track Russian military aircraft operating close to the alliance's borders.