A pair of Su-35S and Su-27P fighter jets from Russia’s Western Military District were scrambled to intercept and deter two United States Air Force bombers that appeared to approach and breach Russia’s state borders over the Baltic region. This action was confirmed by the Center for the National Defense Management of the Russian Federation, which oversees defense and security operations.
According to the center, two aerial targets were detected approaching the Russian border in the Baltic Sea area. In response to the apparent intrusion, the combat aircraft were airborne promptly to monitor the situation, execute intercept procedures, and ensure border integrity. The mission was carried out with adherence to established international norms and rules of engagement governing state border activities.
During the intercept, the flight crew identified the targets as two B-1B strategic bombers operated by the United States Air Force. Once the foreign aircraft had moved away from Russia’s airspace, the Russian fighters returned to their airfields in a safe and controlled manner.
Officials emphasized that the operation followed international standards, with a clear objective to protect the sovereignty of the Russian Federation while maintaining controlled, lawful airspace conduct. The National Defense Control Center of the Russian Federation reiterated that violation of the state border is not permitted and will be responded to in accordance with applicable law.
Earlier, on May 3, 2023, Russian airspace monitoring stations detected two airborne targets approaching the Russian State Border over the Baltic Sea. In that incident, a Su-27 fighter from the Baltic Fleet was scrambled to prevent potential border incursions. The targets were confirmed to be two U.S. Air Force B-1B strategic bombers, and after identification, the Su-27 assumed an airborne alert position to monitor and deter any further movement toward Russian territory. The event highlighted ongoing vigilance and the readiness of Russian air defense forces to respond to potential border threats.
Statements from Pentagon spokesperson Patrick Ryder noted ongoing discussions and updates about the interaction between U.S. B-1 bombers and Russian Su-27 aircraft during related operations over the Baltic region, underscoring the importance of safe and professional military conduct in shared airspaces. Attribution: Center for the National Defense Management of the Russian Federation; official statements from U.S. Department of Defense briefings are cited for context.