On Tuesday 15 April 2025, RAF Typhoons were launched twice in response to NATO tasking to identify Russian aircraft. The first scramble intercepted an Ilyushin Il-20M, followed later that day by the interception of two SU-30MKI fighter aircraft, known to NATO as FLANKER-H.
A third intercept took place on Thursday 17 April 2025, when Typhoons identified another Ilyushin Il-20M near NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea. The Il-20M, codenamed Coot-A by NATO, is an intelligence-gathering aircraft used for communication and electronic signals surveillance.
The RAF Typhoons were operated by aircrew from No. II (Army Co-operation) Squadron, part of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW), who are currently deployed on Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duty. These missions are conducted under Operation Chessman, the UK’s contribution to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing efforts.
Wing Commander Morley, Commanding Officer of 140 EAW, said: “The Royal Air Force is contributing to NATO’s collective defence and security. These scrambles are a clear demonstration of our commitment to stand alongside our NATO allies in maintaining the integrity of the airspace above the Baltic.”
RAF personnel are working alongside Swedish forces at Malbork Air Base, as Sweden participates in its first NATO enhanced Air Policing mission. The operation involves personnel from across the RAF, reinforcing NATO’s presence in the region.
