Signal Jamming Hits RAF Jet Carrying UK Defence Secretary Near Russian Border

Email:online@newsofbahrain.com

London: A Royal Air Force aircraft carrying UK Defence Secretary John Healey experienced full signal disruption during a flight near the Russian border.

The incident happened on Thursday as Healey was returning to the UK after visiting British troops stationed in Estonia. During the three hour flight, passengers lost internet access on phones and laptops, and the aircraft’s GPS system was also reportedly jammed. Pilots were forced to switch to alternative navigation systems, though the aircraft continued its journey safely.

The Dassault Falcon 900LX jet carried journalists and photographers as well. They were informed that the situation did not pose a safety risk, even though electronic systems were affected. It is not confirmed whether the Defence Secretary was specifically targeted, but the aircraft’s route was visible on public flight tracking websites.

The disruption has raised concerns about electronic warfare activity near Russian borders, especially involving NATO linked flights.

The report comes shortly after the UK Ministry of Defence said Russian fighter jets had carried out “dangerous and repeated” interceptions of a British surveillance aircraft over the Black Sea last month. In one case, a Russian Su-35 reportedly came very close to an RAF Rivet Joint aircraft, triggering emergency systems and disabling autopilot, while a Su-27 made multiple close passes.

Similar GPS jamming incidents have been reported before involving RAF aircraft operating near Russian territory.

Defence Secretary Healey praised the RAF crew for continuing their mission despite the disruption and said the UK remains committed to NATO operations and regional security.

Pic Credit: AFP