RAF Typhoons Threaten to 'Shoot Down' Latvian Plane and Force Landing at Stansted Airport

Two RAF fighter jets caused a huge 'sonic boom' after they were deployed to divert a Russian-built Latvian cargo plane to land at Stansted Airport.

The huge explosion could be heard across the Kent area, with some taking to social media to describe how the bang caused their houses to shake.

Kent Police confirm the bang was a result of RAF activity and that two jet fighters escorted a cargo plane to land at the airport.

Audio footage has emerged of the Russian-built Latvian Antonov An-26 aircraft being warned it would be shot down it didn't co-operate.

Stansted Airport confirmed the plane landed at their airport, but that it was given the all clear after being checked by police.

The RAF said jets were following standard procedure after the plane lost radio contact briefly.

A spokesperson said: "Typhoon aircraft were launched this afternoon from RAF Coningsby to intercept a civilian aircraft south of London which was causing concern to air traffic control authorities.

"The aircraft was safely escorted to London Stansted. To fulfill their quick reaction role the Typhoons were cleared to travel at supersonic speed, any noise disturbance as a result of this is regretted."

The RAF added they are sorry to anyone who was "startled" by the bang and reassured their jets only go supersonic over land "when absolutely necessary".