NATO to Conduct First Test Launch of Large Surveillance Drones from Finnish Airbase

NATO will test its large RQ-2025D Phoenix surveillance drones for the first time on June 4 at Pirkkala Air Base, located near Tampere, Finland, according to Finnish broadcaster Yle, citing defense sources. This initiative is part of the alliance’s bolstered reconnaissance operations in northern Europe, particularly along the Russian border, and highlights Finland’s strategic significance since its accession to NATO in 2023.

The decision to conduct the tests at Pirkkala Air Base is attributed to its modern infrastructure and proximity to Finland’s eastern border, making it an ideal location for reconnaissance missions. The RQ-4D Phoenix drone, developed by Northrop Grumman, boasts advanced capabilities, including the ability to remain airborne for over 30 hours while gathering data through synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and electro-optical/infrared sensors.

Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, NATO has utilized these drones, which are based at Sigonella Air Base in Italy, to monitor the alliance’s eastern borders, particularly in the Black Sea region. The RQ-4D’s initial flight over Finland occurred in September 2023, marking a significant milestone in the country’s integration into NATO’s reconnaissance framework.

The upcoming tests at Pirkkala will assess the drones’ operational capabilities in northern climates and challenging terrains. According to Defense News, these trials will enable NATO operators to adapt to new conditions and enhance their reconnaissance coverage near the Kola Peninsula, home to Russia’s strategic military facilities. The initiative has raised concerns in Moscow and intensified debates regarding the militarization of the region.