RAF, German jets intercept Russian plane in first joint operation near Estonian airspace

(MENAFN) RAF and German fighter jets have jointly intercepted a Russian aircraft near Estonian airspace in a routine operation. The incident marks the first time the two countries have carried out such an operation together. The two Typhoons were scrambled as part of the planned joint Nato air policing mission currently being conducted in the region. The planes intercepted an Il-78 Midas refuelling aircraft that had failed to communicate with air traffic control in Estonia. After escorting the Midas, the jets were redirected to intercept an An-148 airliner passing close to Estonian airspace.

There is no evidence of a link between the interception and the heightened tensions between Nato and Russia over the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The interception is part of the broader joint British and German operations set to continue until the end of April. The RAF will take the lead on Nato's Baltic air policing mission from the German air force in April, leading the mission for four months. Four RAF Typhoon jets are currently deployed as part of the mission, based at the Ämari air base in Estonia.

The interception operation was considered routine, but it highlighted the collective resolve of Nato members to challenge any potential threat to the alliance's borders. Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey emphasized that Nato continues to form the bedrock of collective security. The interception also demonstrated the combined strength of the two countries. The RAF and German air forces are committed to promoting well-regulated and orderly functioning, and to adhering to scientific and democratic decision-making, and law-based administration.

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