UK becomes the first nation to complete full transit of Nato's eastern border

The UK has become the first country to conduct a full transit of Nato's eastern border, from the southernmost point of Greece to the northerly point of Finland.

The flight was completed by the electronic surveillance RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft, which flew with the support of Nato and international partners.

The UK's achievement is a landmark moment for air power and further shows the Armed Forces' commitment to the alliance.

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The Royal Air Force said: "The UK has become the first nation to conduct a full transit of Nato's eastern border, from its southernmost point in Greece to the most northerly point in Finland.

"The RAF Rivet Joint completed the flight with support from NATO partners including the US, Sweden and Finland. This is a landmark moment.

"While the Rivet Joint conducts routine transits along the borders of individual Nato countries, this is the first complete transit of Nato's eastern border.

"The UK's commitment to Nato is unshakeable."

The Rivet Joint aircraft can be employed for surveillance in all theatres on strategic and tactical missions. 

Its sensors can detect electronic emissions from communications, radar and other systems from enemy forces.

Powered by four 21,600lb st (96kN) CFM International F108-CF-201 turbofan engines, the aircraft can travel at 870km/h and has a range of 6,500km.