The Defence Secretary has highlighted the professionalism of Royal Air Force crews and reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering commitment to NATO, following an incident in which an RAF aircraft was intercepted by Russian fighters while operating in international airspace over the Black Sea.
Speaking about the incident, John Healey described the actions of the Russian pilots as “dangerous and unacceptable,” underlining that the RAF aircraft was conducting a routine, lawful mission in support of NATO’s collective security.
“This incident is another example of dangerous and unacceptable behaviour by Russian pilots towards an unarmed aircraft operating in international airspace. These actions create a serious risk of accidents and potential escalation. Let me be clear: this will not deter the UK’s commitment to defend NATO, our allies and our interests.”
John Healey
Secretary of State for Defence
The aircraft involved was an RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint, a key intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platform operated by the RAF. The Rivet Joint fleet provides vital situational awareness to UK and NATO commanders, gathering electronic and communications intelligence to help maintain a clear understanding of activity across the battlespace.
With a crew of up to 30 specialists, Rivet Joint aircraft routinely operate in international airspace, in full accordance with international law, contributing to NATO’s collective deterrence posture and the security and stability of the Euro-Atlantic region.
The RAF has a long-standing record of conducting such missions safely, professionally and transparently alongside Allies. These operations are defensive in nature and are a critical part of NATO’s mission to preserve freedom of navigation and overflight.
This latest incident follows another serious encounter in September 2022, when a Russian aircraft launched a missile in the vicinity of an RAF Rivet Joint operating over the Black Sea. At the time, the UK Government made clear that the aircraft was unarmed and operating lawfully in international airspace and raised the issue directly with Russian counterparts. The event underscored the real-world risks posed by unprofessional behaviour in congested airspace.
“This incident highlights the challenging operating environment in which our crews routinely operate, and the reckless and unprofessional airmanship of the Russian Air Force. Despite interference, RAF personnel maintained control, upheld safety and continued to deliver the task in support of NATO.”
Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth
Chief of the Air Staff
The UK Government has formally raised the latest incident with the Russian Embassy.
RAF operations over the Black Sea and elsewhere are conducted as part of NATO’s collective effort to reassure Allies, deter aggression and uphold the rules-based international system. Through sustained presence, professionalism and close cooperation with partners, the RAF continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace and stability in international airspace.
