RAF Typhoons Intercept 15 Russian Aircraft Near NATO Airspace in Six Days
Royal Air Force Typhoon jets deployed to Poland have intercepted 15 Russian military aircraft over the past six days, marking the busiest operational week for the UK contingent under NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission.
According to a Royal Air Force update, the Typhoon FGR4s—stationed at the 22nd Tactical Air Base in Malbork since April 1 as part of Operation CHESSMAN—were scrambled six times to respond to Russian aircraft flying near NATO-monitored airspace.
The interceptions began on Saturday, June 7, when RAF pilots identified an Antonov An-30 (‘CLANK’), a Cold War-era reconnaissance aircraft, departing the Kaliningrad Flight Information Region. In the same mission, they also intercepted an Ilyushin Il-20M (‘COOT A’), a signals intelligence platform.
“Today marked my first operational scramble,” one RAF pilot said. “Intercepting two aircraft in one mission was intense, but our training kicked in immediately.”
On Sunday, June 8, Typhoons intercepted two Su-24M ‘FENCER D’ tactical bombers—one of which conducted low passes over the USNS William McLean, a U.S. Navy logistics vessel operating in the Baltic region.
Monday and Tuesday brought further interceptions, including another Il-20M, an An-30, and a Tu-142 ‘BEAR F’ maritime patrol aircraft accompanied by two Su-27 ‘FLANKER B’ fighters. That complex sortie was extended with mid-air refuelling from a German Luftwaffe A400M tanker.
“Intercepting a third aircraft in one mission is a first for me,” another pilot shared. “The aerial refuelling by our German allies made it possible.”
The Officer Commanding No II (Army Cooperation) Squadron praised the collaboration: “Using NATO’s AAR platform enhanced our effectiveness and reaffirmed the strength of our alliance.”
RAF scrambles continued through Wednesday and Thursday, targeting additional An-30s, Su-24s, and another Il-20M.
Operation CHESSMAN is part of the UK’s commitment to NATO’s air policing efforts in Eastern Europe, conducted under the command of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing.
The RAF continues to maintain a rapid response posture amid increased Russian military activity near NATO territory.
