Two Russian Bombers Caught Invading European Airspace

Two Russian Tu-95 Bear strategic nuclear bombers were found last week entering European airspace without permission. And it's not the first time this year.

The planes entered the airspace forcing two Royal Netherlands Air Force F-16s into action last week.

According to Defense Tech, the Russian's fleet is made up of Tu-95MS that are designed to carry Kh-55 air launched cruise missiles, which can carry nuclear and non-nuclear weapons with a range of more than 1,800 miles. Defense Tech goes on to state that it is unclear from the video (below) if the tail guns are pointed upwards, which it notes would be "common practice from the Cold War meant to clam the nerves of NATO pilots sent to escort them."

Gizmodo has more:

The Russian authorities have not given any explanation about these bomber flights, but they keep testing the waters without seemingly caring about the consequences. NATO is limiting itself to escort them out of the airspace but, according to Ares, this is already the fourth time that NATO has intercepted Tu-95 over European skies in 2011 alone.

You can watch the video of the incursion below: