Fighter Jets Halt Russian Bombers Entering British Airspace
Fighter jets were scrambled to intercept two Russian bombers as they headed for British airspace yesterday.
Tornados and F-16 jets escorted the long-range Tu-160s bombers south towards the Bay of Biscay where Russia is staging its biggest military exercise since the Soviet era.
Their navy is currently test-firing missiles from warships there in a show of strength by President Putin before the presidential election.
The MoD said it was a “routine” response but angry Foreign Secretary David Miliband added: “Russia’s action is reminiscent of the Cold War.”
The incident reflects the rise in tension between the countries after the murder in London of ex-KGB officer Alexander Litvinenko.
Last week the Government was forced to close the British Council offices in Russia after a “campaign of intimidation” against staff.
