Two Portuguese F-16 fighter jets on Sunday intercepted a Russian aircraft flying over international waters off the coast of Estonia, in the Baltic Sea.
The Portuguese fighter jets are participating in NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission and were performing routine work, according to a statement published on the alliance’s website.
The Russian aircraft had no flight plan and followed with electronic identification disabled, giving orders to the two F-16s to proceed and confirm the aircraft’s identification.
“After identifying and escorting the Russian aircraft, the Portuguese fighters returned safely to Siauliai,” in Lithuania, says the note, which “demonstrated the outstanding commitment, dedication and professionalism of all members who are part of the detachment” praises.
The identification of the Russian plane took place on the second day of the Portuguese mission, which sent four F-16 covers to Lithuania last week.
Source: DN
