Russian fighter jets dangerously approached a British reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea.

Two Russian military aircraft over the Black Sea "dangerously and provocatively" intercepted an unarmed reconnaissance aircraft belonging to the British Royal Air Force. BBC reported this.

 

According to the British Ministry of Defence, the incident occurred last month in international airspace. A Russian Su-35 fighter jet flew at an extremely close distance to an RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft, which was carrying out a mission to monitor NATO's eastern flank. As a result, the aircraft's emergency safety systems were activated, and the autopilot system temporarily shut down.

 

Additionally, a Russian Su-27 fighter jet flew in front of the British aircraft six times. In some instances, it approached within just six meters of the reconnaissance aircraft's nose.

 

British Defence Secretary John Healey highly praised the actions of the RAF crew and described the behavior of the Russian pilots as "unacceptable."

 

"This is another example of a dangerous and irresponsible attitude towards an unarmed aircraft operating in international airspace. Such actions increase the risk of disaster and tension," Healey said.

 

The British Ministry of Defence assesses this incident as one of the most dangerous aerial provocations committed by Russia since 2022. That same year, a Russian fighter jet launched a missile at an RAF Rivet Joint aircraft over the Black Sea.

 

London emphasizes that the British aircraft was conducting a routine surveillance flight in accordance with international law. Following the incident, the British Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence demanded an official explanation from the Russian Embassy.

 

The Ministry of Defence also noted a recent increase in Russian military activity in the region. In particular, it is reported that Russian submarines have been observed moving near British underwater infrastructure in the North Sea.

 

The RAF's RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft are equipped with advanced reconnaissance technology, collecting strategic information in real time by detecting and analyzing electromagnetic signals. The aircraft typically operate from an airbase in the Lincolnshire area.