Dutch F-35 fighters intercepted Russian planes over the Baltic Sea.
This was reported by Ukrinform with reference to the Dutch Ministry of Defense.
“Two Dutch F-35s carried out their first interceptions from Estonia last Friday. The Dutch military identified and escorted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea,” – the message says.
It is noted that Dutch F-35s have been patrolling NATO airspace on the eastern border since the beginning of December.
The so-called Quick Response System (QRA) is part of this task. If necessary, two F-35s take to the air within a few minutes to intercept another aircraft. This happens, for example, when an aircraft approaches NATO airspace without identification.
QRA was activated twice. During the first sortie, two aircraft were identified: an AN-72 transport aircraft and a Su-24 reconnaissance aircraft. The next time was an Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft.
Dutch F-35s escorted the aircraft over international waters to the border of NATO's area of responsibility.
“That's why our people are here: to protect our common airspace from Russian threats. As Friday's incident showed again, Russian armed forces are actively operating in various ways near NATO airspace. Our allies in the Baltic states welcome our efforts. I am proud of our people, who were able to immediately demonstrate their value to our security”, – said Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.