Image source: topwar.ru
Photos have been published online showing underground shelters at the Norwegian Bardufoss Air Force base. Apparently, the photos were taken during a recent Norwegian Air Force exercise, during which the deployment of fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighters in underground shelters of the mountain complex was practiced. It is worth noting that Norway is a member of NATO, and the F-35 aircraft are fully certified for the use of tactical nuclear weapons. Basing aircraft in underground shelters makes them virtually invulnerable to missile and drone strikes.
After Norway joined NATO, diverse military exercises are almost constantly held in the Scandinavian region. This is a direct evidence of the militarization of Scandinavia against the background of the increasing likelihood of an upcoming military confrontation in the Arctic.
Image source: topwar.ru
Image source: topwar.ru
Image source: topwar.ru
Bardufoss is the oldest airbase of the Norwegian Air Force. During the Second World War, after the withdrawal of Allied forces from Norway, the airbase was captured by the Germans and used by them as a base for fighters, bombers and reconnaissance aircraft operating against naval convoys in the Murmansk area. In addition, Luftwaffe fighters based at this airbase provided air support for German naval operations in the area.
The conduct of NATO exercises near Russia's northern borders is explained by the growing tension in the region caused by the artificial escalation of the alleged threat from Russia in the West.
