Fighter jets flew into action after Russian planes flew over the North Sea

RAF fighter jets were diverted from Scotland this week after a Russian military plane was discovered flying close to British airspace.

Two Typhoons from RAF Lossiemouth in Moray monitored a Russian Bear-F aircraft as it flew over the North Sea on Thursday, the Ministry of Defense said.

The Russian reconnaissance aircraft was detected in the British area of ​​interest, but was unable to enter British sovereign airspace at any time.

The incident comes after the Royal Navy spent the past week shadowing Russian military ships sailing through the English Channel.

The Golovko was accompanied by oceanographic research vessel Yantar and supporting tanker Vyazma.

All three had been followed by the Norwegian Navy before British forces took over.

The Duke-class frigate and Tide-class tanker, supported by an RAF P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, followed the ships through the Channel before handing over their duties to the French Navy.

While the Golovko continued its journey, Iron Duke took over shadow duties for the second Russian group.

Frigate Neustrashimy and her support ship, tanker Akademik Pashin, were on their way to their home port in the Baltic Sea.

Iron Duke remained in contact with the pair through the Channel and into the North Sea before being handed over to a Dutch warship.

Armed Forces Secretary Luke Pollard said: “Our adversaries should have no doubt about our steadfast resolve and formidable ability to protect Britain.

“The Royal Navy and RAF have once again shown that they are ready to defend our country at a moment’s notice and I pay tribute to the professionalism and courage of those involved in these latest operations.”

It is understood this is the second time in three months that the Royal Navy and RAF have detected Russian ships and aircraft within a week of each other.