RAF Typhoons carry out simulated intercept of US B-52 bombers

RAF Typhoons deployed on Nato's Baltic Air Policing Mission in Estonia have intercepted US B-52 strategic bombers as part of a training exercise.

The fighter jets, from 140 Expeditionary Air Wing, simulated the interception of two B-52s from the US Air Force Bomber Task Force in the skies over the Baltics.

The RAF then escorted the American bombers south-southwest towards Western Europe.

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The B-52 provides the US with both immediate nuclear and conventional strike capabilities.

The jet, which has a wingspan of 56.4m (185ft), is the most combat-able bomber in the US' fleet, with its large payload of 31,500kg (70,000Ibs) and long range.

The RAF crew and Typhoons deployed on the Nato mission in Estonia helping to protect alliance airspace along its eastern flank have had a busy couple of months.

In June, the fighter jets were scrambled to intercept Russian aircraft 21 times in just 21 days.