Multiple reports describe an incident in which two Russian jets intercepted an RAF aircraft operating over the Black Sea. The accounts say the interception was repeated and conducted in a way described as “dangerous,” with the Russian aircraft flying extremely close to the RAF plane. One report states the jets came as near as six metres away, citing the character of the interception as well as the proximity between aircraft during the manoeuvres. The reports present the event as an example of close approach during military aviation operations in the region, involving an RAF aircraft described in the coverage as a spy plane.
The available information focuses on the alleged close intercept and the distance between aircraft during the encounters, rather than detailing the specific purpose of the mission, the exact aircraft models, the timing, or any official statements from the governments or militaries involved. The reports also do not provide confirmed details about air traffic control communications or whether either side considered the incident to be a safety breach beyond the accounts’ descriptions.
