Home  /  Newsroom  /  2021  /  NATO jets intercept Russian nuclear-capable bombers over the Norwegian and North Seas

In the High North, Norwegian F-16s took to the sky after a Norwegian P-3C aircraft identified a group of Russian military aircraft. While most of the group returned to Russia, two Tu-160 Blackjack nuclear-capable bombers continued to fly south over the North Sea.

NATO fighter jets are always on duty, ready to scramble 24/7 in case of suspicious or unannounced flights near the airspace of our Allies. Today's intercepts show the speed at which NATO can react in the air to any eventuality

"We are always vigilant," NATO deputy spokesman Piers Cazalet said. "NATO fighter jets are always on duty, ready to scramble 24/7 in case of suspicious or unannounced flights near the airspace of our Allies. Today's intercepts show the speed at which NATO can react in the air to any eventuality"

On Friday 12 November 2021, fighter aircraft from Belgium, Norway, the UK, and other allied countries were scrambled to respond to Russian aircraft near allied airspace.  Pictured is an IL-72 MIDAS refuelling aircraft. Royal Norwegian Air Force, 333 Squadron

As the Russian bombers travelled further, they were intercepted by UK and Belgian air forces. Picture by: The Royal Air Force,