UK jets intercept Russian aircraft near NATO airspace

UK fighter jets have intercepted two Russian aircraft flying close to NATO airspace.

Two RAF Typhoons were scrambled from Malbork Air Base in Poland on Tuesday 15 April to intercept a Russian Ilyushin Il-20M “Coot-A” intelligence aircraft over the Baltic Sea.

On Thursday 17 April, another two Typhoons scrambled from the base, to intercept an unknown aircraft leaving Kaliningrad air space and close to NATO airspace.

The interceptions were part of the UK’s contribution to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing in the region. They were the RAF’s first scramble as part of Operation CHESSMAN.

Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard said: "The UK is unshakeable in its commitment to NATO. With Russian aggression growing and security threats on the rise, we are stepping up to reassure our Allies, deter adversaries and protect our national security through our Plan for Change.

"This mission shows our ability to operate side by side with NATO’s newest member Sweden and to defend the Alliance’s airspace wherever and whenever needed, keeping us safe at home and strong abroad."