Russian state-owned Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jets are suspected to has violated Danish airspace on Friday, August 28, according to HQ Allied Air Command.
The Russian Su-27, flying from Kaliningrad, followed the U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber well into Danish airspace over the Island of Bornholm, committing a significant violation of airspace of a NATO nation.
“This incident demonstrates Russia’s disrespect of international norms and for the sovereign airspace of an Allied nation. We remain vigilant, ready and prepared to secure NATO airspace 24/7,” said General Jeff Harrigian, Commander of NATO’s Allied Air Command.
Danish Quick Reaction Alert aircraft were launched to counter the violation, however the violating Russian fighter turned back before interception. The Danish jets remained airborne and patrolling to protect the sovereignty of Danish airspace.
The unauthorised intrusion of sovereign airspace is a significant violation of international law. Friday’s incident is the first of this kind for several years and indicates a new level of Russian provocative behavior.
The B-52 bomber was taking part in the long-planned training activity “Allied Sky”, where six B52 aircraft flew over all 30 NATO member nations in one single day, accompanied by and training with around 80 fighter aircraft from across the Alliance.
