Russian Su-35 and MiG-31s have intercepted B-1Bs over the Bering Sea

The Russian defence ministry reported that it has intercepted two US Air Force bombers and a tanker aircraft over the Bering Sea on 21 October 2020.

Two USAF B-1B Lancers of the 7th Bomb Wing and an accompanying KC-135R were reportedly intercepted by a MiG-31 and a Su-35 of the Russian Federation - Aerospace Forces (RF VKS) during a long-range mission from home base Dyess AFB (TX). The Russian MiG-31 and Su-35 pilots were SCRAMBLE'd from Yelizovo air base (Russia) to the Lancers and escorted the bombers during their flight over international waters of the Bering Sea.

The Russian fighters belonged to the Eastern Military District, 11th Red Banner Air and Air Defence Army, 303rd Composite Aviation Division, 22nd Fighter Aviation Regiment (22 IAP) that is operating with MiG-31BSM, Su-27SM/UB/UP, Su-30SM2 and Su-35S. The unit is known to have a Quick Reaction Alert detachment at Yelizovo.

An RF VKS spokesman reported to the Sputnik news agency: "NATO has increased its reconnaissance flights over the region manifold, which is nevertheless mirrored by the Russians, often escalating the tensions. Earlier, the US Air Force already raised F-22 fighters to escort Russian Tu-95MS strategic missile carriers over the neutral waters of the Chukchi, Beaufort, Bering and Sea of Okhotsk".

In April and September 2020, likewise interceptions of B-1s took place over the waters of Bering and Okhotsk seas.

Still from video: Rus MoD