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Russian aircraft intercepted by British fighter jet: British MoD

Xinhua, September 12, 2015 Adjust font size:

British Royal Air Force (RAF) jets flew to intercept Russian aircraft flying in international air space, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed Friday.

RAF Typhoon jets flew from Lossiemouth station in Moray, Scotland, to intercept two Russian "Blackjack" aircraft on Thursday, said the MoD.

"The Typhoon pilots visually identified the two Russian aircraft and escorted them whilst in the UK area of interest," the MoD said.

"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," said Jim Calvert, squadron leader involving the mission.

Air-to-air refuelling support was provided by an RAF Voyager aircraft from RAF Brize Norton during the mission, according to MoD.

"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," Calvert added.

No other sources are available at the moment to confirm the news. Endit