This image shows the moment that British warplanes were scrambled to intercept ten Russian military planes in a single mission lasting less than two hours.
Moscow deployed four of the world’s fastest supersonic fighter jets, along with other warplanes, on just one day in a sign of worsening tensions in the region.
The Russian planes streaked along the fringes of Baltic airspace in an intense 90-minute period, prompting the deployment of state-of-the-art Typhoons from Amari air base in Estonia.
RAF Typhoons are currently protecting the Baltic skies against Russian aggression.
They were dispatched into the sky on Friday after the Russian jets were picked up by Nato radar.
The mission was the biggest yet in one day.
RAF pilots have taken to the skies from their Estonian base more times in 2015 so far than in the whole of 2014.
Since May this year, the jets have scrambled a staggering 18 times, compared with 13 in total last year.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: ‘Once more, the RAF and our state-of-the-art Typhoon fighters have demonstrated our commitment to NATO’s collective defence.
‘Air interceptions such as this highlight the vital importance of the UK’s contribution to the Baltic Air Policing mission and demonstrate our collective resolve to protect NATO airspace alongside our allies.’
The aircraft, from 6 Squadron, identified four Sukhoi Su-34 fighters, four Foxhound Fighters, known as MiG-31s, and two Curl transport aircraft.
The Foxhound Fighter – one of the most formidable fighters – is capable of firing long-range missiles up to 100 miles.
A defence source said they appeared to be carrying out training in the region.
They were monitored and escorted on their way.
The RAF planes deployed to the region in May and will remain there until August.
In February, it was revealed that British fighter jets had been scrambled more than 40 times to deter Russian military planes encroaching UK airspace since David Cameron had taken office.
(dailymail.co.uk)
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