U.S. European Command acknowledges that a U.S. RC-135 aircraft was vectored into Swedish airspace on July 18. The aircraft commander, acting in a professional and safe manner, maneuvered the aircraft to avoid a possible encounter by Russian aircraft. The U.S. aircraft was operating in international airspace over the Baltic Sea following proper flight procedures and guidance when they detected the attempted encounter. The U.S. aircraft was directed towards Swedish airspace incorrectly by U.S. personnel, and vectored out of the airspace once the Swedish air traffic controllers informed them of the error. The aircrew did exit Swedish airspace and safely returned to their home station. EUCOM will take active steps to ensure we have properly communicated with Swedish authorities in advance to prevent similar issues before they arise.
Posted on: Sun, 03 Aug 2014 12:14:26 +0000