RAF Typhoon jets were dispatched to intercept Russian bombers flying north of Scotland in the early hours of this morning, according to an announcement by the UK government. The swift response came as two Russian long-range maritime patrol bombers were detected transiting near the Shetland Islands within NATO’s northern air policing area.

The UK’s quick reaction alert (QRA) jets were launched from RAF Lossiemouth in north-east Scotland, while the two Russian bombers were closely monitored in international airspace as they flew north of the UK. A Voyager refuelling tanker was also deployed and remained airborne throughout the mission, providing air-to-air refuelling support for the Typhoon fighters if required.

Minister for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, praised the vigilance of the RAF crews at Lossiemouth, highlighting their dedication to safeguarding the UK’s airspace. He stated, “RAF crews at Lossiemouth maintain a constant watch over UK airspace and are always ready to take action at a moment’s notice to keep our country safe.” He added that the Typhoon jets were launched to intercept the Russian bombers and monitor their movements near the Shetland Islands, ready to respond to any potential threats to UK territory.

The lead RAF Typhoon pilot, whose identity was not disclosed by the Ministry of Defence, expressed satisfaction in the successful interception, emphasising the importance of upholding the integrity of UK and NATO airspace. The pilot remarked on the adrenaline-filled response to the scramble alarm and the seamless coordination with ground control operators. The presence of the RAF Voyager allowed the mission to proceed with air-to-air refuelling capabilities, ensuring that the Typhoon fighters could remain operational until the target aircraft exited the UK’s area of interest.