RAF Typhoons Intercept Russian Bombers For Third Time In Six Days

RAF Typhoons have been scrambled to intercept Russian bombers for the third time in six days.

Two Russian Tupolev Tu-160 Blackjacks approached UK airspace north of Scotland before flying down the west coast of Ireland, the RAF said.

Typhoons were launched from RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Coningsby, while an RAF Voyager tanker aircraft from RAF Brize Norton was also launched to provide air-to-air refuelling.

The RAF said it coordinated closely with NATO allies, including the NATO Combined Air Operations Centre at Uedem in Germany.

Air Vice Marshal Duguid, Air Officer Commanding 11 Group, said: “The interception by RAF Typhoons and other NATO fighters of the Russian bombers for the third time in a week demonstrates our continuing resolve to police, protect and defend our airspace 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”

The Russian aircraft were monitored by the National Air and Space Operations Centre at RAF High Wycombe and Air Surveillance and Control System at RAF Boulmer. 

On Saturday, six RAF Typhoons were scrambled to intercept Russian Tupolev Tu-95 Bears off the north-west coast of Scotland.

Days later on Wednesday, RAF Typhoons were again scrambled to intercept Rusian bombers flying in the UK's area of interest.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston, described the Russian aircraft as a "hazard" to airliners. 

Cover Image: A Russian Tupolev Tu-160 Blackjack strategic bomber pictured by RAF aircrew (Picture: MOD).