USAF B-52s intercepted by Russian fighters while flying towards Romanian base

Two US B-52 bombers have been intercepted by Russian aircraft during a mission over the Barents Sea.

The US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft, the first US bombers to operate out of Romania, were on a pre-planned mission and were flying towards Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base when they encountered two fighter aircraft from Russia.

Despite the presence of the aircraft, the US pilots did not change course and continued their scheduled flight plan without incident.

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General James Hecker, Commander of USAFE-AFAFRICA (United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa), said: "In today's global environment, it is vital that we be postured to deliver a range of sustainable capability from great distances.

"This iteration of Bomber Task Force offers an excellent opportunity to refine our agile combat employment tactics, techniques and procedures.

"Through collaborative efforts with our allies, the US enables our forces to combat current and future threats.

"The US is dedicated to work alongside our Nato allies along the eastern flank to ensure we have the combined skills and co-ordination capabilities necessary to maintain regional safety, security and stability."

Since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, Western and Russian military aircraft have encountered one another across the continent.

Earlier this year, a Russian Sukhoi Su-24 tactical bomber was intercepted by a Swedish JAS-39 Gripen when it violated Swedish airspace.

In 2023, the Royal Air Force shadowed Russian aircraft over the Black Sea, forcing them to return to their airspace.