F-35 intercepted Russian An-124: why Moscow "pumps" the weapon

To spread: two Italian F-35 Lightning II fighters flew from Emari Air Base in Estonia to intercept the Russian An-124 aircraft "Ruslan", which was approaching NATO airspace in the Baltic Sea. The mission has become part of the NATO Program to ensure the security of the Baltic Region and the Eastern Flank of the Alliance. NATO Air Command reported on August 28.

According to Army Recognition Operators, the incident emphasizes the ongoing tension around the Kaliningrad region, where Russia traditionally concentrates significant forces and means. In turn, the Italian contingent, which is part of the 32nd and 6th Air Force, has been participating in the NATO mission to patrol the Baltic Air Force since 2004.

And F-35 fighters in such operations allow not only to quickly identify offenders, but also to conduct real-time intelligence in the interests of the Alliance. It is noted that the intercepted An-124 Ruslan aircraft is one of the largest strategic transporters in the world, capable of transporting up to 120 tons of loads, including armored vehicles, helicopters or components of rocket systems.

The capabilities of the machine allow it to work even in difficult conditions and provide Russia with the possibility of prompt overturning of large military goods. The emergence of the An-124 in the Baltic region has attracted special attention in view of the strategic importance of Kaliningrad, which houses the Iskander missile complexes, air defense systems and naval forces of Russia.

The use of Ruslana, not less than transport aircraft, can indicate the overturning of important military equipment, the observers emphasized. Recently, two F-35 F-35 fighter jets stationed at the air base in Estonia have risen anxiety for intercepting the Russian Su-24 bomber and Su-27 fighter, which accompanied it. Russian planes were flying without flight plans and with transponders switched off.