NEWS STORY : UK Fighter Jets Intercept Russian Aircraft Near NATO’s Eastern Flank
STORY
Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon fighter jets were scrambled twice last week to intercept Russian military aircraft operating near NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
On Tuesday, 15 April, two RAF Typhoons deployed from Malbork Air Base in Poland intercepted a Russian Ilyushin Il-20M “Coot-A” intelligence aircraft. Later that day, the same Typhoons were called upon to intercept two Russian Su-30MKI fighter jets departing from Kaliningrad airspace. Subsequently, on Thursday, 17 April, another pair of Typhoons were scrambled to intercept an unidentified aircraft leaving Kaliningrad airspace near NATO territory.
These interceptions mark the RAF’s first operational scrambles under Operation Chessman, a mission initiated following the deployment of six Typhoon jets to Poland in March. The operation aims to bolster NATO’s air policing efforts along its eastern flank, particularly in response to increased Russian military activity in the region. The Ministry of Defence emphasised that such interceptions are standard procedure when unidentified aircraft approach NATO airspace without prior coordination. These actions are part of NATO’s Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) protocols, designed to ensure the safety and integrity of allied airspace.
Luke Pollard, the Minister for the Armed Forces, said in a statement:
“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.”
