The UK has condemned a 'dangerous and unacceptable' incident in which a Russian Su-27 jet flew within six metres of an unarmed RAF Rivet Joint spy plane over the Black Sea in mid-April. Defence Secretary John Healey said the Russian aircraft conducted six passes close to the British plane, risking a collision that could have sparked a diplomatic crisis.
In a separate encounter also in mid-April, a Russian Su-35 jet flew so close to the same RAF aircraft that it triggered emergency systems, including disabling the autopilot. The Rivet Joint, capable of electronic surveillance up to 150 miles, was on a routine NATO patrol monitoring Russian activity in international airspace.
Healey described the actions as creating 'a serious risk of accidents and potential escalation', noting that the incident was the most dangerous Russian action against a British Rivet Joint since a missile was fired over the Black Sea in 2022. He praised the 'outstanding professionalism and bravery' of the RAF crew, who continued their mission despite the risks.
The incidents come amid heightened Russian military activity in Europe. Last month, two Russian frigates escorted oil tankers and a suspected arms shipment through the North Sea and Dover Strait, requiring a month-long Royal Navy surveillance patrol. Healey also revealed that three Russian submarines had loitered over critical undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic for a month before departing.
Healey reiterated the UK's commitment to defend NATO allies and interests against Russian aggression, stating that the incident would not deter the UK from its obligations.
