A number of typhoon jets scrambled to respond to four Russian aircraft coming towards the UK, The Royal Air Force has confirmed.
The jets were launched from RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, Scotland, and a specialist aircraft from RAF Brize Norton.
The Typhoon fighters were met by four Russian aircraft, two Tu-95 Bear H and two Tu-142 Bear F.
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An RAF spokesperson said: “Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighters based at RAF Lossiemouth supported by a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton were scrambled today against unidentified aircraft approaching the UK area of interest.
"Subsequently we intercepted and escorted four Russian Bear aircraft."
At no time did the Russian bombers enter UK sovereign airspace.
The RAF routinely intercept, identify and escort Russian aircraft that transit international airspace within the UK's "area of interest" and continue to be on call.
The air force work closely with NATO partners to monitor such aircraft as they pass through international airspace.
Similarly, jets were launched in November 2021 in response to Russian TU-160 Blackjack strategic bombers.
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