Two Royal Netherlands Air Force F-16 fighter jets have intercepted two Russian long-range Bear bombers, also known as Tupolev Tu-95MS, across the North Sea, according to the Dutch Defence Ministry.

After being intercepted, the Russian bombers turned toward the west in the direction of UK airspace.

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The Defence Ministry said, “The quick reaction alert of the UK Royal Air Force took over the escort [once the Russians left Dutch airspace].”

Intercepting incidents involving Russian planes have increased in the past few years with the latest that took place in late January and early March this year.

Two armed F-16s from the Dutch Air Force are always on permanent standby to intercept unidentified aircraft.

The Volkel and Leeuwarden airbases take charge of the quick reaction alert unit.

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