NATO intercepts a series of Russian bombers.

Six Russian bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons were intercepted by NATO fighter jets as they flew into the Baltic Sea.

Russian Tu-95 strategic bomber. Photo: Yle

AFP reported that the incident involved four Russian Tu-95 Bear strategic bombers and two Tu-22M Backfire long-range bombers on December 7th. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) dispatched Portuguese F-16 fighter jets to intercept the aircraft while they were in international airspace.

Oana Lungescu, a NATO spokesperson, said that while interceptions are frequent in the Baltic Sea, this incident demonstrates "the seriousness of Russian activity."

In two other incidents later in the day, Western coalition fighter jets intercepted a total of seven Russian aircraft, including Tu-34s used for training and transporting personnel, as well as An-72 transport planes.

"Such activities can be destabilizing and dangerous if international standards are not respected," Lungescu warned. She also mentioned instances where Russian fighter jets failed to report their location or provide flight plans in advance, endangering commercial aircraft in the vicinity.

NATO says Russian activity in European airspace has increased since the crisis in Ukraine erupted earlier this year. This level of presence is said to be unprecedented since the Cold War.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said there have been around 400 interceptions of Russian military aircraft near member states since the beginning of the year, a 50% increase compared to last year. The US-led military alliance has deployed additional aircraft, ships, and personnel to reassure its members.

However, Russia insists that its air force only conducts training flights in international airspace and fully complies with all applicable international rules.

According to vnexpress