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New Delhi: Russian fighter aircraft were reportedly scrambled multiple times to intercept a British Royal Air Force surveillance plane operating over the Black Sea, according to recent reports. The incident marks another sign of heightened tensions between Russia and NATO members amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The aircraft involved was identified as an RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint, a reconnaissance platform used for intelligence gathering and electronic surveillance missions. The aircraft was reportedly flying in international airspace near regions witnessing increased military activity linked to the Ukraine conflict.

Russian Jets Shadow British Aircraft

Reports suggest Russian military jets closely approached and monitored the British aircraft several times during the operation. Such encounters are not uncommon in strategically sensitive regions, where fighter jets are often deployed to identify foreign military aircraft flying near national borders.

The Black Sea has emerged as one of the most heavily militarized zones in Europe since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. NATO countries have significantly increased surveillance flights in the region to monitor troop deployments, naval movements and broader security developments.

Growing NATO-Russia Friction

The UK Ministry of Defense has consistently maintained that RAF intelligence missions are conducted in accordance with international law and support regional security assessments.

Russia, however, has criticized NATO reconnaissance activities near its territory, accusing Western countries of increasing military pressure and escalating tensions. The latest interception highlights continuing friction between Moscow and NATO as military encounters in the air and at sea become more frequent across Europe’s strategic regions.