A Russian frigate launches two flares near a Danish military helicopter in the Baltic

A Russian frigate launched two flares towards a Fennec helicopter of the Danish Air Force during a routine operation in international waters of the Baltic Sea. According to the Danish Armed Forces, one of the flares passed very close to the aircraft, although no personal or material damage occurred.

The incident took place last Monday, September 14, off Gedser, at the southern tip of the Danish island of Falster. The AS550 Fennec helicopter was conducting a surveillance operation and photographic coverage of a Russian frigate sailing in international waters.

According to the Danish Defense Command, the Russian warship launched two flares towards the helicopter, and one of them passed at a short distance from the aircraft.

Following the incident, Denmark summoned the Russian ambassador in Copenhagen to seek explanations. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the event as a "reckless action."

For his part, the Russian ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, blamed the Danish pilots and described the helicopter's actions as provocative.

Photo: Marine Vessel Traffic