RAF Typhoons intercept Russian jets over North sea

RAF Typhoon jets were scrambled to intercept two Russian 'Blackjack' aircraft encroaching on UK airspace, it has been confirmed

The Russian planes did not enter UK territory but strayed over the North Sea and near enough to be in what is known as a "British area of interest".

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed two RAF Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth were scrambled to intercept the Russian "blackjack" aircraft on Thrusday (10 September).

A Ministry of Defence statement said: "RAF Quick Reaction Alert fighter aircraft scrambled from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland yesterday to meet two Russian aircraft. The Typhoon pilots visually identified the two Russian aircraft and escorted them whilst in the UK area of interest."

Squadron leader Jim Calver, who flew one of the RAF Typhoons involved in the mission, added: "Given the Royal Air Force's enduring commitment to secure the UK's skies, yesterday's sortie once again proved Typhoon's capability to successfully scramble and intercept Russian long-range aviation.

"Protecting our skies is especially poignant in this 75th anniversary year of the Battle of Britain. Working together with ground-based radar and air-to-air refuelling aircraft today's RAF continues to come together as a team to protect our country."