RAF Typhoons Complete NATO Air Policing Mission In Estonia

RAF Typhoons were based in Estonia on Quick Reaction Alert (Picture: MOD).

RAF Typhoon jets have completed their Baltic Air Policing mission in Estonia.

Operation Azotize saw the fighter jets conduct 21 interceptions of 56 Russian aircraft over the four-month deployment.

It was at the request of the Estonian government to provide the country with a Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) force.

The force is drawn in turn from NATO partners and is ready to respond at any time to potential threats.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: "Our presence in the region has served to reinforce that the UK remains ready to support our allies wherever and whenever required."

The RAF has handed over the responsibility of the mission to the Gripen aircraft of the Czech Air Force.

Later this year, RAF Typhoon aircraft will also undertake a similar NATO air policing mission in Iceland at the request of the Icelandic government.