RAF Typhoons intercept Russian spy plane and two fighter jets flying close to Nato airspace

ROYAL Air Force Typhoons have intercepted a Russian spy plane and two fighter jets flying close to Nato airspace today. The war planes were intercepted by Operation Azotize who were protecting the eastern flank of NATO’s border, near Estonia. The war planes were intercepted by Operation Azotize who were protecting the eastern flank of NATO’s border The Eurofighter Typhoons from the RAF’s IX Squadron and the German Air Force’s 71 “Richtofen” Wing were scrambled to intercept the unidentified planes flying close to Nato airspace. One of the aircraft was identified to be a Russian Air Force IL-20 Coot-A intelligence aircraft transiting from mainland Russia to the Kaliningrad enclave. It was met by two Russian SU-27 Flanker-B fighter jets based in Kaliningrad, which escorted the spy plane through the north-west area of the Estonian flight information region. The Coot-A was a signals intelligence aircraft and was flying in a safe and professional manner. However, the RAF said it was an important interception. A pilot said: “We often see Russian military aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea and so this was a routine intercept for us. “Nevertheless, the importance of intercepting these aircraft and our commitment to the collective defence of Nato airspace remains steadfast and resolute. “What this intercept has proven is that together with our German allies, we are able to act with speed and decisiveness to effectively ensure the Alliance’s security.” THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY… The Sun is your go to destination for the best celebrity news, football news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Download our fantastic, new and improved free App for the best ever Sun Online experience. For iPhone click here, for Android click here.  Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheSun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.