Now: Swedish Air Force takes action against Russian warplanes
Several Russian fighter and spy planes were spotted over the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea on Friday.
The British Air Force said in a statement that Russian aircraft were spotted close to NATO airspace.
– Our allies and partners in the region can be sure that NATO is here to stay. The UK remains committed to the collective defense of NATO airspace, Commander Magall said in a statement.
One of the Russian aircraft discovered is the model IL-20 Coot-A. The plane, described by the British as a spy plane, was flying from Russia to Kaliningrad, Russia, on the Polish border.
During the flight, the IL-20 Coot-A was joined by two Russian SU-27 fighter jets.
Together, the planes reportedly flew over Estonia’s northwest flight information area.
NATO responded – involving Sweden
NATO acted at lightning speed.
British and German air forces escorted Russian planes through the Estonian Air Information Zone.
Sweden then took over.
The Swedish Air Force sent several Jaz 39 Gripen aircraft, which escorted the Russian planes, according to the British report.
The Air Force did not comment on the data.
“Steadfast and Steadfast”
The British Air Force described the incident as routine.
– We often see Russian military aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea, so this is a regular interception for us. But it still demonstrates the importance of intercepting these flights and that our commitment to the collective defense of NATO airspace is unwavering and steadfast.
– The operation proved that together with our German allies, we can act with speed and determination to effectively ensure the defense of the alliance, says a British fighter pilot who took part in the operation.
Facts Jas 39 Gripen
– This aircraft is considered to be the fourth generation fighter and is technologically advanced.
– It is controlled using an electronic control system and can transmit data, for example radar images, on telelinks to other aircraft and ground stations.
– Jas 39 Gripen’s design is based on digital infrastructure. Among other things, the plane has more than 40 computers, which means that the computer is easy to upgrade.
Source: Swedish Armed Forces
Photo: Joel Thungren Armed Forces
Text: Compilers
More Stories
UK expands military contract with Saab
Saab receives more orders for training systems from the UK
Saab receives more orders for training systems from the UK