Germany launched two Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft to intercept Russian MiG-31, Su-27 and Il-62M fighters

The Russian air force wanted to test the air defense system of NATO countries with the help of eight aircraft.

What we know

Last week Germany had to take to the skies two Eurofighter Typhon multi-purpose aircraft to intercept and escort eight Russian planes. The Russians decided to test NATO's air defense with three MiG-31 fighters and one Il-62M transporter before being joined by two Su-27s and three more MiG-31s.

NATO aircraft are now based in Estonia at Ämari Air Base. Along with German Eurofighter Typhon multirole fighters there are Swedish JAS 39 Gripen in service with the Hungarian Air Force . In addition, the Czech Air Force JAS 39 Gripen fighters are also on patrol.

There is a possibility that German Eurofighter Typhons were used to intercept and escort Russian MiG-31s previously deployed in Crimea. On August 17, after a series of strikes on military facilities, the Russians decided to remove helicopters and aircraft, including MiG-31s, from the peninsula.

Source: defence24, NATO Allied Air Command

Image: NARA & DVIDS Public Domain Archive

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