Updated on: May 20, 2026 / 1:20 PM EDT
/ CBS/AFP
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Two Russian jets "repeatedly and dangerously" intercepted a British surveillance aircraft over the Black Sea last month, the defense ministry said in a statement on Wednesday."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," Defense Minister John Healey said in the communique.The incident comes as relations between the two countries remain at a historic low over the Ukraine war and longstanding spying allegations.The Russian Su-35 and Su-27 jets intercepted the Royal Air Force (RAF) Rivet Joint aircraft last month with the Su-27 at one point flying as close as six meters (19 feet) to the British plane's nose, the statement added, along with a 12-second video of the alleged incident.The surveillance aircraft was taking part in a routine flight in international airspace as part of the U.K.'s work alongside allies to secure NATO's Eastern Flank.
Two Russian jets "repeatedly and dangerously" intercepted a British surveillance aircraft over the Black Sea last month, the defense ministry said in a statement on May 20, 2026.
