An RAF aircraft transporting the defence secretary experienced signal interference while flying close to the Russian border. The electronic disruption occurred during John Healey’s return flight from Estonia, where he had been visiting British troops. The incident is attributed to Russia.
During the three-hour flight, smartphones and laptops lost internet connectivity, and the pilots had to rely on an alternate navigation system due to the plane’s GPS being disabled. Although it is unclear if Mr. Healey was specifically targeted, the flight path was publicly visible on aircraft tracking websites, as reported by The Times.
Passengers, including photographers and a reporter, were reassured that the aircraft, a Dassault Falcon 900LX, could still operate safely. This event follows the recent revelation by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) that two Russian jets had engaged in dangerous interceptions of an RAF spy plane over the Black Sea.
One Russian Su-35 jet flew in close proximity to the British reconnaissance aircraft, triggering emergency systems, while a Su-27 aircraft came within six meters of the aircraft’s nose and conducted multiple passes. The MoD described this as the most perilous Russian action against a British Rivet Joint aircraft since a missile incident in 2022.
In response, Mr. Healey condemned the incident as reckless and condemned the actions of Russian pilots towards unarmed aircraft in international airspace. He praised the professionalism of the RAF crew and reiterated the UK’s unwavering commitment to defending NATO, allies, and interests against Russian aggression.
The RAF Rivet Joint is equipped with advanced sensors for electronic surveillance, enhancing NATO’s situational awareness and safeguarding its territory. This incident parallels a previous occurrence in March 2024 when GPS signals were disrupted during a flight with then-defence secretary Grant Shapps near Russian territory.
Moreover, concerns have been raised by Scottish First Minister John Swinney regarding Russian military activities off the Scottish coast, emphasizing the need for robust capabilities to counter potential threats. Mr. Healey disclosed the tracking of three Russian vessels near the UK’s northern coast, prompting the deployment of British warship and aircraft to deter provocative actions by the Russian regime.
The MoD announced proactive measures to protect the Arctic and High North, including increasing presence in Norway, deploying HMS Prince of Wales, and enhancing joint exercises with NATO allies. The statement also highlighted investments in submarine hunting aircraft and the launch of the Atlantic Bastion program to bolster naval capabilities. Military personnel in Scotland and the skilled workforce in the Scottish defense industry were commended for their dedication to national security.
