The British Embassy in Russia on Telegram addressed misinterpretations surrounding an incident involving a Royal Air Force RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft and a Russian Aerospace Force MiG-31 fighter. It clarified that the RC-135W mission on August 15 took place in international airspace and did not cross Russian borders.
A Russian MiG-31 engaged in a dangerous maneuver as the RAF RC-135W conducted routine operations over the Barents and Norwegian seas on August 15. The RAF crew remained in contact with Russian air traffic controllers and operated with professionalism and caution, according to statements issued by Moscow.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the British reconnaissance aircraft allegedly violated Russia’s state border in the Barents Sea. An intercepting MiG-31BM was deployed to address the situation, prompting the RAF aircraft to withdraw from the border area, according to the ministry.
To halt the border breach, a MiG-31BM from on-duty air defense forces was assigned to identify the British RC-135 as an electronic intelligence and electronic warfare asset. The air target was reported to have crossed the Russia state border in the Cape Svyatoy Nos region, the ministry said.
On August 16, the Ministry of Defense announced that the UK had filed a flight plan for an RC-135 mission along a route that also traverses Russian territory. Moscow described the move as a deliberate provocation and stated that every consequence would fall on England.
In response to the incident, the Russian Charge dAffaires in London, Alexander Gusarov, stated that a British aircraft violated Russian airspace and urged the British side to avoid creating tension in the Arctic, an area referred to as one of peace and cooperation. He characterized British actions as a deliberate provocation and a breach of international law. The RAF indicated that its aim was to test defenses and push the limits of patience.
British destroyer near Crimea
Gusarov drew a parallel with the 2021 incident involving the British destroyer Defender, which breached territorial waters near Cape Fiolent in Crimea. Russian border ships issued warnings, and a Su-24M bomber fired a warning shot along the destroyer’s course. The British later stated that Crimea would be recognized as part of Ukraine, asserting international law permitted their passage through the waters.
Officials quoted a retired British official as saying the UK would continue to act in accordance with its interpretation of international law when navigating these waters.
Statements on provocation
Officials discussed the British actions as exceeding accepted norms. They argued that NATO members could use provocations under the pretext of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The commentary suggested that provocative acts should be stopped to prevent further escalation, and that Russia reserves the right to respond to violations of its airspace by all appropriate means.
Another senior official warned that if such actions occur again, and if the breach appears intentional, it could prevent a return to base. He stressed that Russia adheres to international law and that Western countries, including NATO, have violated it in various ways.
Officials also cautioned that future incidents might involve higher tensions and potential escalation. The discussion noted that Russia would respond to violations with suitable measures, while diplomatic channels remained in use. A deputy in the Federation Council International Committee linked the event to tensions in the international arena and suggested that the UK may be testing Russia’s reactions.
State Duma members described the flight as a border test or provocation, noting that a higher level of tension could redefine how such events are interpreted. Officials argued that Russia’s borders are well defended and that it would counter any threat as necessary.
Overall assessments emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and lawful conduct while ensuring that air and sea borders are respected. The discussions highlighted concerns about future incidents and the need for clear international responses to deter violations and preserve regional stability.