RAF jets deployed to Ukraine as UK backs Nato’s response

ROYAL AIR Force jets have been sent to defend Baltic air space as part of Nato’s response to the Ukraine crisis.

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said four Typhoon aircraft, promised in March, had now been sent to the region.

They will take part in the Baltic Air Policing (BAP) mission over Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, which lack their own air defence fighter planes.

Mr Hammond said: “In the wake of recent events in Ukraine, it is right that Nato takes steps to reaffirm very publicly its commitment to the collective security of its members.

“As a leading member of Nato, the UK is playing a central role, underlined by today’s deployment of RAF Typhoon aircraft to Lithuania. This, alongside the other action we are taking, will provide reassurance to our Nato allies in Eastern Europe and the Baltic states.

“Britain must continue to play its part in standing up to Russia’s actions.”