STORY
UK F-35 fighter jets were launched from HMS Prince of Wales after a Russian maritime patrol aircraft repeatedly approached the British carrier in the Norwegian Sea. The Ministry of Defence said the aircraft’s behaviour was unsafe and unprofessional.
The Russian Bear-F aircraft was reported to have flown at low altitude and dropped sonobuoys near the carrier, which is operating as part of a UK-led carrier strike group under NATO command. Two F-35 jets intercepted the aircraft and escorted it away from the area.
Defence Minister Dan Jarvis said the incident underlined the importance of maintaining a strong UK and NATO presence in the High North. The carrier strike group includes Royal Navy ships, aircraft and support vessels deployed to strengthen North Atlantic security.