Russian Jets Repeatedly Intercepted British Surveillance Aircraft: UK Officials Two Russian military aircraft “repeatedly and dangerously” intercepted an unarmed British reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea in April. The incidents occurred while the RAF Rivet Joint was conducting routine flights in international airspace. One Russian Su-35 fighter jet flew so close that it triggered the surveillance aircraft’s emergency systems, including autopilot disengagement.

• British officials reported that two Russian military aircraft “repeatedly and dangerously” intercepted an unarmed reconnaissance aircraft over the Black Sea last month.
• The Royal Air Force (RAF) Rivet Joint was intercepted by two Russian jets in separate incidents in April while flying in international airspace.
• One Russian Su-35 fighter jet flew close enough to trigger the surveillance craft’s emergency systems, including the disengagement of the autopilot.
• A senior minister stated that these incidents risked escalating tensions.