14 September 2023 , 07:05
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A Russian air force pilot thought he had permission to attempt to shoot down an RAF surveillance plane.
The pilot launched two missiles, but the first one missed. At the time, it had been reported that the missile had mulfunctioned, with Russia claiming the incident was caused by a "technical malfunction" last September.
The UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) accepted the Russian explanation in a public address. However, three Western defence sources have now learned that Russian air force communications around the time differ from thee official narrative.
The RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint was carrying a crew of 30 personnel, was soaring over the Black Sea on a surveillance mission. It was in international airspace when it was approached by two Russian SU-27 jets.
Communications intercepted by the targeted plane suggests that one of the Russian pilots was actually given permission to strike the British aircraft. According to the BBC, the command supplied by a Russian ground station was an ambiguous command but that the pilot was approved to hit.
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As the first trigger-happy pilot launched his missile, the second Russian pilot remained steadfast, before swearing at and scolding his wingman.
The Rivet Joint aircraft is packed with sensors capable of "soaking up" communications, radar and other systems, claims the RAF. This means the 30 airmen and women on board could've listened in on the Russian pilots as they executed them in the skies.
The MoD has not and does not plan to release further details of the communications.
An MoD spokesperson told the broadcaster: "Our intent has always been to protect the safety of our operations, avoid unnecessary escalation and inform the public and international community."