The Durch Ministry of Defence has said they scrambled F-35 stealth fighter jets to “intercept” Russian spy planes.
The Russian planes were then “escorted” over the Baltic Sea last week and the NATO jets are based in Estonia.
The Dutch MoD said, “The quick reaction alert was activated twice.
“In the first flight, two aircraft were identified: a transport aircraft of the type AN-73/74 COALER and a SU-24MR Fencer E.
“This is a reconnaissance aircraft that collects electronic intelligence. In the afternoon, the QRA was activated again. This time, it turned out to be an IL-20 Coot A spy plane.”
The Dutch MoD said the F035 jets are monitoring NATO airspace on the eastern border of the alliance’s territory since the start of December.
A ministry spokesperson added, “The Dutch F-35s escorted the aircraft over international waters at a distance to the border of the NATO area of responsibility.”
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans said, “This is why our people are there: to protect our collective airspace against Russian threats.
“As was once again evident on Friday, Russian forces are active in various ways near NATO airspace. Our allies in the Baltic states are pleased with our efforts.
“I am proud of our people who were able to immediately demonstrate their value to our security.”
Leave a Comment