Tensions rose on Christmas Day when Russian nuclear-capable bombers flew near British airspace, compelling NATO to scramble fighter jets in response. The flight over the Norwegian Sea, northeast of Scotland, alarmed Western leaders and increased fears of a wider war as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
Vladimir Putin's Tu-95MS 'Bear' bombers, which are parts of Russia's nuclear forces, carried out a routine patrol lasting more than seven hours. They were joined by Su-33 fighters from the Russian Navy and stayed in international waters without crossing into UK airspace, but their closeness still raised concerns.
