NATO Jets Intercept Russian Amphibious Aircraft Over Baltic Sea

NATO Responds to Russian Aircraft Near Baltic Airspace

On January 16, 2026, Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon jets, deployed as part of NATO's enhanced Air Policing mission, were scrambled from Ämari Air Base in Estonia to intercept a Russian military aircraft. The intercepted aircraft was identified as a Beriev Be-200 amphibious plane, operated by the Russian Navy, flying in international airspace near the Baltic Sea. This action was confirmed by NATO Air Command and aligns with the Alliance's routine procedures to safeguard its airspace.

Details of the Interception and NATO's Role

The interception occurred at approximately 11:30 local time, as the Russian aircraft approached the Baltic Sea region without prior coordination. NATO's Air Policing mission is a permanent, peacetime defensive operation designed to preserve the security and integrity of Allied skies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Fighter aircraft are launched to visually identify, monitor, and, if necessary, escort unidentified or non-compliant military aircraft operating near NATO airspace. The mission was conducted safely and professionally, ensuring continuous monitoring of air activity without entering hostile airspace.

The Russian Be-200: An Unusual Military Presence

The Russian aircraft involved, a Beriev Be-200PS (tail number '21 Yellow'), is considered a relatively rare platform within Russia's military inventory. While primarily known for civilian roles such as firefighting, transport, and special missions, the Be-200 has recently been adapted for surveillance and support tasks within the Russian Navy. Its presence near NATO-monitored airspace highlights the varied nature of Russian military aviation activity in the region.

Context of Increased Air Activity

This interception is not an isolated incident but rather part of a sustained pattern of Russian military aviation activity near NATO borders. According to NATO figures, more than 500 air policing scrambles were conducted across NATO airspace during 2025, reflecting a consistent operational tempo along the Alliance's eastern flank. NATO's enhanced Vigilance Activities, including operations like 'Eastern Sentry,' aim to reinforce air defense and deterrence measures in response to this increased activity. The Baltic region remains a key area for such encounters, underscoring NATO's continuous commitment to collective defense and situational awareness.