Visby corvette HMS Helsingborg first in historic Swedish-Finnish naval operation

The Visby corvette HMS Helsingborg is the first out in an operation that began this week - and which is described as historic by the navy.

Never before has a Swedish warship been placed under Finnish command.

- There is a tense security situation in the Baltic Sea which is somehow also stable. With this operation, we ensure that we are even more combat-ready in a sharper situation, says Paula Wallenburg, the Navy's chief of operations.

Happens after drone incidents

The decision on the operation was made at the end of August following a request for support from Finland - when the Finnish defense was under pressure from recurring drone incidents and air violations. Both Swedish warplanes and warships participate in the operation, which is ongoing during the autumn.

- It's about preparing for all potential threats to territorial integrity, including drone intrusions. A deepened cooperation in this area shows that Sweden and Finland are ready for all kinds of security situations, says Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen.

Finnish decisions on firing

SVT accompanied aboard the Swedish Visby corvette HMS Helsingborg on patrol in the Gulf of Finland during one of the first days of the operation. Johan Tillander, the Finnish Navy's chief of operations, was present:

- This vessel has extensive surveillance capabilities and is therefore well suited to monitor the air and sea area in the Gulf of Finland.

What happens if an alien drone approaches?

- In practice, it is governed by Finnish decision-making. The captain has certain powers for self-defense, but beyond that there is a chain that goes up to the Minister of Defence, says Johan Tillander.

Click on the player to see the report from HMS Helsingborg on location in the Gulf of Finland.