Norway intercepts Russian bombers escorted by aerobatic team jet

Norwegian Armed Forces confirmed Friday that two Norwegian F-35 fighter jets identified and shadowed two Russian Tu-95 Bear-H strategic bombers and two Su-35 Flanker-M fighter aircraft operating in international airspace over the Barents Sea as part of a NATO air policing mission.

The interception highlights ongoing NATO monitoring activities in northern Europe, where allied aircraft routinely track Russian long-range aviation flights approaching alliance airspace. Officials described the mission as routine but emphasized its role in safeguarding regional security and maintaining situational awareness.

In a statement, the Norwegian Armed Forces said: “Today, two Norwegian F-35s at NATO mission identified and shadowed two Russian Tu-95 Bear H bombers and two Su-35 Flanker M fighters in international airspace over the Barents Sea — a routine activity, but an important part of monitoring and safeguarding our region.”

The aircraft were operating in international airspace and did not enter Norwegian sovereign territory, according to the statement. NATO air policing missions are conducted regularly to monitor military aviation activity near alliance borders and to ensure rapid response capability when unidentified or foreign aircraft approach monitored zones.

According to available footage accompanying the report, one of the Su-35 aircraft belonged to the Russian aerobatic team known as the “Russian Knights.” The aircraft was observed carrying air-to-air missiles, indicating a combat-ready configuration rather than a demonstration flight profile.

The Su-35 Flanker-M is designed for long-range interception and air combat operations. When armed with air-to-air missiles, the aircraft provides protective escort for bombers operating near monitored airspace, allowing Russian aviation to maintain defensive coverage during long-range patrols.