A Russian jet fighter intercepted a U.S. Navy plane Tuesday while it was flying over the Mediterranean Sea.
The Russian Sukhoi Su-35 intercepted the U.S. P-8A Poseidon three times over the course of 175 minutes, according to a news release from the U.S. 6th Fleet. While two interactions were deemed safe, one was dangerous, as the jet flew at a high speed directly in front of the Navy plane.
“The crew of the P-8A reported wake turbulence following the second interaction. The duration of the intercept was approximately 28 minutes,” the U.S. 6th Fleet release states.
“While the Russian aircraft was operating in international airspace, this interaction was irresponsible. We expect them to behave within international standards set to ensure safety and to prevent incidents, including the 1972 Agreement for the Prevention of Incidents On and Over the High Seas (INCSEA). Unsafe actions increase the risk of miscalculation and potential for midair collisions.”
The 6th Fleet maintains the U.S. aircraft was complying with international law and did not provoke the Russians.
