John Healey described the actions of the Russian pilots as “dangerous and unacceptable”. He said the incident would not affect the UK’s commitment to NATO, its allies and its interests.
“This incident is another example of dangerous and unacceptable behaviour by Russian pilots towards an unarmed aircraft operating in international airspace. These actions create a serious risk of accidents and potential escalation. Let me be clear: this will not deter the UK’s commitment to defend NATO, our allies and our interests,” said John Healey, Secretary of State for Defence.
The aircraft involved was an RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint. The platform is used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
The Rivet Joint fleet provides situational awareness to UK and NATO commanders. It gathers electronic and communications intelligence to help maintain understanding of activity across the battlespace.
Rivet Joint aircraft operate with crews of up to 30 specialists. The RAF said they routinely fly in international airspace in accordance with international law.
The aircraft contribute to NATO’s collective deterrence posture. They also support security and stability in the Euro-Atlantic region.
The RAF said it has a long record of conducting such missions safely, professionally and transparently alongside Allies. It said the operations are defensive and form part of NATO’s work to preserve freedom of navigation and overflight.
The latest incident follows a serious encounter in September 2022. In that case, a Russian aircraft launched a missile near an RAF Rivet Joint operating over the Black Sea.
At the time, the UK Government said the aircraft was unarmed and operating lawfully in international airspace. It also raised the issue directly with Russian counterparts.
“This incident highlights the challenging operating environment in which our crews routinely operate, and the reckless and unprofessional airmanship of the Russian Air Force. Despite interference, RAF personnel maintained control, upheld safety and continued to deliver the task in support of NATO,” said Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff.
The UK Government has formally raised the latest incident with the Russian Embassy. RAF operations over the Black Sea and elsewhere are conducted as part of NATO’s collective effort to reassure Allies, deter aggression and uphold the rules-based international system.
The RAF said sustained presence, professionalism and close cooperation with partners remain central to these missions. It said the service continues to support peace and stability in international airspace.
Source: Royal Air Fore (RAF).
