According to reports in the Canadian press, fighters were carrying out a training mission in the early afternoon of last Saturday when they received orders to intercept the Russian aircraft. The Hornets reached the Russian Elint in a few minutes even though the point of interception is not clear. According to some media reports, the interception took place in Lithuania's airspace. According to other media, however, the Russian spy plane flew into international airspace close to the Lithuanian borders.
The Canadian Hornets escorted the Russian aircraft for five minutes, also taking photos that have not yet been released, before returning to the Siauliai base.
The spy plane 'Ilyushin Il-20 Coot' is the Russian aircraft most intercepted by NATO fighters in the Baltic region and last Saturday's episode is only the latest in order after the 20 and 21 last October . In the latter case, it was the Portuguese F-16 who took off from the base of Siauliai to intercept a 'Coot'.
The participation of Canada is a demonstration of solidarity with the Allies and dedication to NATO - commented National Defense Minister Rob Nicholson - we are extremely proud of our men and women in Lithuania, who stand alongside our NATO allies. Our pilots are among the best in the world and the Royal Canadian Air Force is ready for any challenge.
The Royal Canadian Air Force currently flies on the CF-18 also over the skies of Iraq in bombing missions against ISIL.
Franco Iacch
(photo: Royal Canadian Air Force)
