Russian MiG-31 fighter launched a sortie to intercept two US B-1B bombers over the Barents Sea, forcing Washington's plane to turn around.
“On March 24, Russia discovered a group of targets in the Barents Sea towards the border of the Russian Federation. The MiG-3 fighter belonging to the quick reaction air defense force launched a sortie to identify and prevent the target from violating the Russian border," the Russian Ministry of Defense said.
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the target group was identified as two B-1B strategic bombers of the US Air Force. The two B-1Bs then turned to leave and the MiG-31 fighter returned safely to base.
US officials have not commented on the information.
Russian MiG-31 aircraft flies above Red Square, Moscow on May 7, 5. Image: Reuters
Russia has repeatedly sent fighters to intercept foreign aircraft in waters near the border, including US bombers and British, German, French, American and Norwegian reconnaissance aircraft.
The US and Russia have repeatedly deployed reconnaissance aircraft or bombers close to each other's airspace. Aircraft from both sides always encounter each other in these missions, but often approach and supervise professionally and safely.
Barents Sea and surrounding area. Graphics: Wikimedia
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