RAF Typhoons intercept Russian Aircraft over the North Sea: UK Jets from RAF Lossiemouth Respond

Peter Thomas -
L o n d o n ,   U K - 

Typhoon fighter aircraft scrambled from RAF
Lossiemouth, with an RAF Voyager from Brize
Norton, to monitor two Russian Blackjacks
approaching UK airspace. Crown copyright.

RAF Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) Typhoon fighter aircraft scrambled from RAF Lossiemouth, with an RAF Voyager from Brize Norton, to monitor two Russian Blackjacks approaching UK airspace.

The RAF worked closely with NATO partners to monitor the Russian aircraft as they passed through a variety of international airspace before they were intercepted over the North Sea. Our fighters escorted them from the UK’s area of interest and ensured that they did not enter UK sovereign airspace.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

“Our brave RAF pilots have shown again that we are ready to respond to any threat to the UK. Alongside our NATO allies, we must remain vigilant and aware of Russian military activity."

The RAF routinely identify, intercept and escort Russian aircraft that transit international airspace within proximity to the UK’s area of interest and continue to be on call every day. This is the second time this week RAF aircraft have taken to the air to investigate Russian activity, following a similar incident on Wednesday evening, but on that occasion, an intercept by the Typhoons was not necessary.

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