Russian bombers prompt complaints from Japan
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 9 February 2012 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russian bombers prompt complaints from Japan, 9 February 2012, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4f3bc77223.html [accessed 22 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
February 09, 2012
Russia's Defense Ministry says two Russian strategic bombers have returned to their base in Siberia following a 16-hour training patrol over international waters north of Japan.
Reports say the patrol prompted the air forces of Japan and South Korea to send F-15 and F-16 fighters to monitor the mission.
Officials said the Russian flight involved two nuclear-capable Tu-95MS strategic bombers, several escort aircraft, and two Ilyushin flying tankers.
Russia has patrolled the region regularly since August 2007.
The Russian mission came as Japan on February 7 marked Northern Territories Day, calling for the return of the disputed Kurile Islands, held by Russia since World War II.
February 9 is the anniversary of the scuttling of the Russian cruiser "Varyag" during the 1904-05 Russo-Japanese War.
Compiled from agency reports
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
