There is a serious need to reconsider our policy towards Russia. There is no place for another cold war. Why not to cooperate? Robert Opala

Robert Opala, Kirkby,

This sort of cold-war confrontation has led to the escalation of tit-for -tat retaliatory flights which will lead to the shooting down of one nations aircraft which will lead to more accidental penetrations of state airspace in an obvious realist world

Dr Todd Teafolk, Wakefield, United Kingdom

i agree with dean if we send our new bombers they wouldn't do it again

jake, tamworth,

maybe the british, americans and canadians should start flying missions near russia's air space. What do you think?

dean chapman, brandon, canada

to J Primrose, Sacramento, California
Dear Mr. J Primrose, I am fully agree with you, but it seems many our both politicians think another.

Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia

I don't think the Russians will be carrying on with this childish behaviour in 10-15 years time when petrol products are well on the way to being replaced with alternative energies. (particularly jet fuel and cars fuel).
It would be nice to see just one of the countries of what used to be called the "2nd " world spend its money on improving the desperate situation of the majority of the population, rather than flexing muscles. I don't see any westerners rushing to move to Russia. Far from it.
I guess if Russians really knew the reality of life in a modern democracy with good social services they would kick out their despotic leaders.

Geddy, Sydney, Australia

Lena from Moscow makes perhaps the most disturbing post. Most western people do not regard Russia or Russians as a threat in any way, and in fact many Russians now live amongst us. What now worries us, and this is a very recent development, is President Putin's open militaristic actions and statements. I understand his desire to re-establish Russia's pride in itself after the debacle of the break-up of the USSR, and that philosophy has many supporters in the west. Russia is a great country with a great past that deserves to be treated as an equal by the rest of the world. But his recent words and actions have naturally worried moderate people in many countries. What other country has taken to flying heavy bombers to the borders of other countries? it is clearly an act of provocation, but to what end? Britain and America for certain want to be friends with Russia, not enemies, and we had thought this was coming about. What's changed, what is happening?

Peter, Oxford, England

<<< "The exercise is expensive for the RAF. It costs more than £40,000 an hour to fly a Tornado F3 and yesterday’s operation will have cost at least £160,000. ">>>

... and how much less does it cost to have the pilots, mechanics, controllers and other personel sitting around on their duff back at base ?? the price of the gas ! ..

Leigh Smith, Dallas, Tx

Perhaps Putin is just teasing by flying his jets to test how close he can get to British airspace, but I think we all need to remember the mistakes in judgment yesterday about another supposedly harmless antagonist. I think it wise to recall the messages in Churchill's, "While England Slept," and J.F. Kennedy's, "Why England Slept," to make sure we do not have any repeats of a similar story.

Joyce, Sacramento, California

Would not it be wise for both sides (NATO and Russia) to stop long range bomber patrols?

George Guschin, Toronto, Canada

The ignorance of many people about aircraft design is frightening. There are new aircraft being designed now with propellors and it is in no way a mark of obsolescence. Propellors are a better way of propelling an aircraft intended to stooge around for many hours at a time, as they are much more fuel-efficient than jets. And as others have pointed out, the fact that the original design of an aircraft is very old is equally not a mark of obsolescence. The B52 and the C130 are just two examples out of many of modern and highly capable aircraft that were originally designed many years ago. And lastly, Russian engineering has always been some of the best in the world. At the domestic level, their cameras and binoculars are absolutely superb. Their cars may have old designs, but they are built for the conditions they will be used in and they LAST. Russia has always been one of the leading nations in the world, and after the demise of communism is now regaining her rightful place.

Peter, Oxford, England

To Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia: you certainly CAN and you certainly SHOULD. Russia IS a superpower. And here's the rub; we waste money and time posturing at each other. I would much rather us grasp hands, be friends and allies, open our economies to each other, visit and exchange culture and values, learn each others' language and protect each others' backs.

A Russo-American partnership would benefit both our peoples and provide a bullet-proof economy and military might around us both. As close allies in full partnership, we would be unbeatable and relatively secure in our future. There is no reason our two peoples cannot fuse themselves together in trust and resources to make a better world.

We can learn from our past and gain in our future. We need a merging of our minds.

J Primrose, Sacramento, California

It is troubling to see the posturing by many parties that reminds us of the Cold War. But to pretend that it's just poor little old peace-loving Russia, trying to stand up to the murderous UK/US/Australia empire-builders.. preposterous. Such airspace violations are ongoing and purposeful. See reports of border violation this week in Finland.
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/09/14/europe/EU-GEN-Finland-Russia-Air-Violation.php
Not the first time in recent years. Thinly veiled threats from Kremlin have been common as Finns debated the recent Estonian/Russian tensions meant to others, human trafficking problems and violent crime from the East, Russian gas pipeline shutoffs in Europe. Finns have been warned not to even think about joining NATO, or else. Which of these stories prove Putin's love of peace & human values: Chechnya. Milosevic/Karadjic. Saddam Hussein 2003. Assassinated journalists. Media outlet takeovers. Shutoffs of gas pipelines to Ukraine. Iran. Etc. Think.

Mari, Turku, Finland

Why waste money?

Russian Destroyer, Rostov, Russia

This has been a terrific reaction but I'm afraid the cold war is long over. The Russians are just winding Nato up for a fun filled reaction - they have no intention of doing any harm. Tu-95 Bear is, like it's counterpart the B-52 no relic - it has been continuously updated and is a superb viable strategic platform. Neither is Tornado - it's an effective, long-legged MPF, perfect for interdiction missions. So JonB in Glasgow - planes are not cell-phones, replaced very few months. Peter and Lena in Moscow, RF - I like you already!!

Marc, Bloemfontein, South Africa

Having spent a full 30 yr. career in the military aviation business I find the constant belittling of Soviet (now Russian) aircraft to be astounding. The Russian designed aircraft are among the world's best and all of its aviation products are seriously underrated. Its pure American propaganda folks.
It's the continuing myth that capitalism produces the best in everything. That is pure hogwash! What produces superior aircraft is good design and engineering and the Russians are second to no one in those areas.
Yes, there was a time when the Russians were mostly copying our aircraft , that was during WW2 but they've outpaced us since then.

Tom C. , California, USA

in a real conflict those antiques would not come anywhere near British airspace - they would launch cruise misslies from hundreds of miles away. They are just gathering a bit of intelligence and flying the flag.

T.Barton, Richmond,

To Joe, Columbus, USA
_____________________________________
before you saying about "global islamic government" wanted by Iran please remember who does provoke them to such kind plans. May be it was your country captured Iraq for oil?
Perhaps they do not want to be occupied by usa due to they have a lot of oil and they have to think about nuclear arms, "global islamic government" and so on in order to resister yourself against agression of usa. How do you think?
We are also pleasured that you are worry about econimical problems of Russia. US economy seems to be fine.
Did you earn good money from Iraqian oil?

Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia

You cant just leave Foriegn aircraft capable of nuclear strikes to roam free as they head towards homeland airspace.

Especially a country like Russia that would openly make threats towards EU and NATO.

leigh, Somerset,

After reading many comments here it's clear that most are not at all familiar with aviation in general. The Russian Bear is a very capable aircraft and the fact that it is still operating attest to that fact. It is not simply a propeller driven aircraft, implying an outdated reciprocal engine; it is a turbo propeller aircraft powered by jet engines. It is fuel efficient and capable of all the speed necessary to accomplish any mission.
No one in his right mind will sell the Russians short when it comes to design of any aircraft. They've been in the forefront of most design changes in all aircraft and their fighters are among the world's best, if not the best.

TomC, California, USA

This all started with the US pointing anti missile missles at Russia from Eastern Europe. Saying in effect this isn't pointed at you but only to defend me from someones missiles but not you of course

David Cox, Powder Springs, Georgia, USA

Reading most anti-Russian comments from the West I can only say that you guys deserve your media and government that is fighting a non-existing enemy and picturing Russia and Putin as main evil. There is so little attempt to understand and so many old cold war views. You know - we did move on unlike you and are leaving in today's world with today's threats and problems. Go on hating russians and talking about russian threat while your governments are ignoring the real problems and real terrorists. In the meantime we will try to solve as many problems (and we have many) as we can. We'll see in ten years who won the cold war.

Lena, Moscow,

Wow!!! How UK is anxious about bears!!! But Russia is always within limits: no boarders violation – no problem. Then, what’s the article about?
UK Government has good imagination and every news now looks like a ghost-story. It’s easier to fight with ghosts than to solve real problems – Iraq, fundamentalists… All these stories are also good to draw public eye from claims of Russia for extradition of escapees to whom UK kindly granted political asylum. You are afraid of bombers, but Russian criminals are among you!!!!!

Olga, Sibiria, Russia

Do the western media have ever told that nato flights had never ceased since the end of the so called cold war? have they ever reported on russian fighters scrambling to intercept nato fighters? Now when I consider evil done the west is so far ahead that it seems impossible for any emerging(and surely welcome) emerging power to one day catch up with the slaughters made in the west and let us not forget that the holocaust was a west made slaughter not made in Middle East, axis of evil you said?

Laurent Idlas, Windsor, Berks

Sadly the Scottish Nation will never Rise and be a Nation Again, we have been crap,d on by the English ever since, will we gain full independance?
davie, Glasgow.

Watch for situation in Kosovo. If Albanians could take away part of Serbia, surely Scotland could do the same.

Jack, Sparrowville, Columbia

All you that hate the US should remember that a lot of you have freedom because of the US.- lawrence, Dallas, US.

Nah, a lot of you have freedom because Napoleon was defeated by Russian Empire. The US tried to get Canada while everyone was busy in Europe at the time (without success though).

Gary, Ontario,

be afraid, putin is over here now buying oz uranium.why?-says C GILLID, brisbane, australia. )))))))))))
To produce electricity, dear Gillid, to produce electricity! )))

Peter, Moscow, Russia

Britain must stand up to the savage Rusian bear. We must never forget that Britain is a nuclear power which fears no one. In a thermonuclear exchange with Russia, Britain would come out unscathed.

Peter Kirk, Kalamata, Greece

"Sorry, couldn't use the WW2 fighters against the TU 05... All you that hate the US should remember that a lot of you have freedom because of the US." lawrence, Dallas, US.

You mean that the US alone won WW2 ? Maybe in American textbooks. You better ask Germans who beat them in WW2 and where most of German army fought. They'll tel you.

More people fought and died on the Eastern Front than in all other theatres of WW2 combined and the German forces suffered 80% to 93% of all casualties on the Eastern Front.

Martin, Hamilton, Canada

Tell pilots to (paint) Lock on and hold. See if they come back then.

Dave, Peterborough, Great Britain

One should be reminded that Russia is former superpower..
Just because the title is gone , does not mean it does not still have it's fangs.
At last report that i saw, it is estimated that they still have 6000 nuclear warheads pointed at the U.S.

Insupport, Little Rock, Arkansas

To pp in Paris:

"Its the US that is disturbing the "calm water" with its missile shield program."

Please explain how a missile shield is "disturbing" anything? A shield by definition is for defense right? Also, the design of the shield is quite modest as it was never designed to counter an attack from Russia, but one from Iran - a country that has threatened to wipe the US, and Israel off the map. And oh by the way, they say they want a global Islamic government. Your argument sound as silly as criminals complaining that the police shouldn't have bullet proof vests.

The reality is, that oil wealth has allowed Russia to reassert itself. Russia feels the pain of a lost empire, never mind that most of it's former members were slaves to it's will. The security services in Russia have become part of the fabric of not only government institutions, but of state companies. That might help create order in the short term, but can only lead to economic disaster in the long term.

Joe, Columbus, USA

You can get a pretty accurate feeling about the general attitude toward the west by reading few comments from Russia. Unfortunately, the attitude is becoming more and more negative. So, flying these bombers is about internal politics b/c of the nearing elections. This is how they promote "patriotism". Same thing as here - Bush got reelected b/c of the war and "patriotism".

I.T., Houston, USA, Texas

Concidering the question of "The Russian Threat" that is really overblown in the Western media.

You know, this is true - nowhere in Russian media there are talks about a possible Russian counter-action to Western threats to Russia security, and those threats clearly exist today, nobody can argue on that. US & NATO are threatening Russia. It's a fact, even all western media would say otherwise. Because the nature of the threat is NOT defined by the one who is threatening, but by the one who is threatened. If Russians feel threatened, then we in fact threaten them, even if we have convinced ourselvs that we're not. The same way we feel threatened by them, even if they do believe thay they don't pose a threat to us.
It's a sick cyckle, right guys? So I think that we must first stop pointing our guns towards them before we can say that they should stop pointing their's towards us. After all - we should be the good guys, right? So it must start with us laying our arms down.

Eksellentz, Helsinki, Finland

It is just hilarious how the english & yanks always see things in black and white. When they go and invade an independent state for oil and murder up to 3.000.000 iraqies (according to some human right organisations) - it gotta be ok, because Mr. Bush said it's about democracy, right? Those silly "camel-jackies" that get murdered there, they are not people, not in the same sence as we here in the West are, right? At least - after reading&watching news papers&channels like Times, Washington Post, BBC or CNN - you get a feeling that this is general opinion in UK & US. If you would say it is not - I'd say - why do you still have same idiots in charge? Why don't you rise to overthrow them? Fight for freedom & democracy? And human rights?
Actually the worst colonial rule that claimed most lifes of innocents around the world in history is clearly Great Britain. Even Spanians are far behind. So I'd say to the Brits - look in the mirrow who is talking before you start commenting others.

Eksellentz, Helsinki, Finland

To: peter dalton, limassol,

"Absolute waste of time and money "intercepting" these things."
No! Pilots need practicing.

If they enter UK airspace shoot them down otherwise they can tour around the North Sea as much as they like.
U.K. pilots should intercept these bombers at the cruise missile range.

" Cant they be scanned to see if they carry nuclear warheads?"
No, I think it's technically impossible.

All this would be unnecessary if only U.K. could absolutely rely on its military intelligence.

Dmitry, Novosibirsk, Russia

Hhmmm...
I think British people don't fully understand what is going on.....

Alex, Moscow,

We need to get the Big Wing up there, that'll see 'em orff!

Leigh-Mallory, Biggin Hill, Kent

Game Theory indicates that Tit for Tat is the best option here.

The European countries bordering Russia could take it in turns flying up and down the Russion borders, forcing the Russian airforce to be in a condition of permanent response.

Mr Putin presumably currently anticipates a nil response from the West, and our inactivity will embolden him further.

Didnt we see all this sort of thing in the late 1930's??? Its quite depressing how extreme nationalism keeps rearing it head in Europe.

John Weaver, San Javier, Spain

I don't see anything wrong with Russians flying around international airspace on a training mission and am happy to see them exercise their military resources.
Why is it that anytime Russia does anything outside their own borders it is portrayed with such bias in the Western media while the US can label three countries as an Axis of Evil without any fear of international critisism and routinely patrol Russian borders. It is so hypocritical.
I only wish other European leaders would have the strength to side with Russia in critizing US policies via Nato throughout Europe.
I for one applaud Russia and Mr. Putin - one gentleman that refuses to be a lapdog to Bush and his cronies.

John, Dublin, Ireland

"
But why have US airplanes never stopped patrolling russian borders? Is it a good practice?
"

they had the money to keep it going on ^^

Peitschenkarl, Schaeublin, Germany

Why bother intercepting them? If they are ignored they won't bother. Basic psycholgy. It's all very childish - not to mention adding more green house gases for no reason whatsoever.

Ben, London, Kent

I don't see anything wrong with Russians flying around international airspace on a training mission and am happy to see them exercise their military resources.
Why is it that anytime Russia does anything outside their own borders it is portrayed with such bias in the Western media while the US can label three countries as an Axis of Evil without any fear of international critisism and routinely patrol Russian borders. It is so hypocritical. I only wish other European leaders would have the strength to side with Russia in critizing US policies via Nato throughout Europe. I for one applaud Russian and Mr. Putin - one gentleman that refuses to be a lapdog to Bush and his cronies.

John, Ireland, Ireland

Nice 1 russia, let the Americans & English know you are still there! for Hundreds of years ,first the English and now the americans seem to think its ok for them to colonise the world where they are not wanted, the English did this to Scotland 400 years ago, Unfortunately only William Wallace and his Scottish Army put up a fight, but due to Greedy backstabbing Edinburgh Land Owners he was Sold Out, Fact! the Only Reason why Edinburgh is the Capital of Scotland is Because it was the First Place in Scotland that there was an English Garrison, and now the so called sell out Parliment is There, Sadly the Scottish Nation will never Rise and be a Nation Again, we have been crap,d on by the English ever since, will we gain full independance? No Chance, because there are too many influential English people living up here, and greedy backstabbing politians! Sadly there is No Hope for Scotland, Thank you England for Destroying our Culture ,

davie, Glasgow,

When NATO planes fly near Russian airspace that is security.
When Russian planes fly near UK airspace that is provocation of West.
Why you can, but we can not?
WHY?

Evgeny, Novosibirsk, Russia

To Scott from Durham, NC
Look no further for imbecility than your own president...
Unfortunately to the world, in this case the implications are not internal to US.
To John Huettner from Cleveland, OH
"its population is drinking, drugging and aborting itself out of existence"-I thought the same can be said about your great hometown of Cleveland. Don't flatter yourself, stud, you've got no chance. Only a groom from Gary, Indiana would score less points than somebody from Cleveland

Roman, Tsukuba,

Tell pilots to (paint) Lock on and hold. See if they come back then.

Dave, Peterborough, Great Britain

To be frank with this government I am surprised we did not offer them citizenship a council house, unemplotment benefit and free medical care as they neared british airspace as we do everybody else.

B Tazzer, London, London

"Are Russia airforce planes still using The Red Star in their wings?

Javier Zurdo, Madrid, Spain"

Yes, they do. They maintain it as tradition, kind of trade mark if you will.
RAF fighter escorting TU-95: http://pix.lenta.ru/news/2007/09/07/price/picture.jpg

People understand: These flights are just training over international waters. And yes, TU-95("Bear") have very good capability and still relevant even after 50 years since maiden flight.

Alex, Baltimore, USA

If cost is an issue then surely we have advanced radar to track them.
Anyway we shouldnt send jets up. Maybe that will send a message to Putin, saying we know you are there but your actions are irrelevant.

Louis Blanc, Liverpool,

be afraid, putin is over here now buying oz uranium.why?

C GILLID, brisbane, australia

An easy way for the Russians to escalate tensions. Because the other nations have to react each time these bombers come near their airspace.

The Norwegians only have 79 aircraft--and their navy consists of six submarines, three frigates, and 15 coastal patrol craft. And Norway has a left-wing government that has been doing its best to cut the defense budget. If there was a real shooting confrontation with Russia, Norway would be quickly out of the plicture--the Russians would brush Norway aside as if it were a buzzing insect. The who's left to confront Russia as it comes down through those international waters into British air space and territorial waters?

Ignore the reality if you wish, but these are times that are being made ever more perilous by the Russian and Chinese expansionist governments.

Terry L. Walker, Ladson, SC / USA

No in agreement with the Russians, but if the Americans did the same thing it wouldn't even make the news. I'm not pro or anti Russian/American, but it seems to me that Russia is trying to get back to the times when they were a super power. With the teaming up of China and more presents in India, we could see the day that Russia will be the only super power. US status is dropping like a rock, thanks to Mr Bush.

Dr Chandra, NA, NA

"It's got propellers for God's sake! Much ado about nothing if you ask me."
says Rod Polisher, Scunthorpe, UK...... well i think you should do some reading up on this aircraft, its one of the biggest far reaching bombers at about 5000 miles, it can carry about 12 TONNES of bombs and would scare the pants off you if you actually seen one in the flesh. these things are awesome and russia's so called show of strength to me is a game that needs to be stopped before it escalates into something a bit more aggressive.
my $0.02

Paul, Chesterfield, UK

Putin's military stance is very distressing given the current situation on his Western and Southern borders, as well as his support of Serbia in its pledge to regain full sovereignity over Kosovo, which everyone knows will never happen. Serbo-Russian misguided alliances led to WW1. It would be too bad, really...

David Laufer, Paris,

And oil prices climb just a littttttle higher.... It's time for alternative energy.

Mike, Pittsburgh,

I would play teh 'Great Game' with the Russians and not send up any fighter aircraft, allow them to misjudge and ebter our space, and then take them out, stating we felt they were rogue planes piloted by Muslim radicals.

The only way to beat a bully is to show your own teeth.

I would go even further and claim the Artic for the Queen of ENgland and her commonwealth, namely Cananda, and declare we are using our base on Antartica to drill for Oil and other minerals. Wind them up they will go crazy and spend all their money on useless weapons, then we can take them over once and for all..

Remember the rankings
First English
Second Europeans and Americans of European heritage
Third Asians
Fourth Slavs and Russians.
No your place in world rankings Putin.

Comrade Purps, Chelmsford, Stalinist McBroon's England

Has Russia violated the UK's airspace? If I'm not mistaken it is the UK and US that have this nasty little post Cold War habit of violating other countries' airspace and worse even, territory,places of worship ,and women.A few Russian planes approaching UK airspace is absolutely nothing in comparison to the flagrant crimes against peace of which the UK stands accused in the Iraq matter.

samaris, paris,

Seems rather comical reading some of the comments here! England is quick to complain about President Putin trying to flex his ‘muscles’. Does this impotent little country feel threatened by Russia? Perhaps acknowledging the fact that Russia does not feel it has to answer to a pathetic warmongering people such as the English is troublesome. Yet Russia has produced many tyrants and has a blood drenched history…..but then again so has England. England is very good at picking faults of other nations, lecturing about whatever crimes other states have done. Yet England forgets that not all other countries are impotent ex-colonies with compliant regimes. Perhaps the Russians are hoping cowardly England sends a few planes over the Baltic, to be shot down and then the English can scant off to U.S.A or Europe. Stop meddling in other nation’s affairs (Russia, Kosovo/Serbia, Arabian peninsular, Central Asia, West Africa…). The English are pretty much DETESTED by everyone...Do YOU ever ask WHY?

Z Dinally, Birmingham, England/U.K

Why not let the ageing aircraft fly over the UK, they would make an interesting sight and if the very unlikely event they dropped a nuke, the UK would be quite capable of causing the total annihilation of Russia and everyone in it without the help of anyone else.

Let us pray nothing stupid like this ever happens but I expect it will one day, our last.

Ajer, Basingstoke, UK

does anyone else think this is immature ????

little rick, Beijing, China

By the way, the propeller based engines are still being used because they consume less fuel compared to jets.

Roman, St. Petersburg, Russia

There is a good reason to be concerned. The Bear has a top speed of 575 mph, London is about 49 miles from international waters.

If (big "if") the bombers were indeed on an attack run, London would have about six minutes until the first nuclear bombs fell.(gravity bombs, cruise missiles would cut that time).

A great many of London's cities are near the coast. The same is true for most nations (except those outrageous French or Germany).

Putin does not appear to be an unstable madman but the Russian military is underpaid, suffers from terrible morale problems and ethnic factions still exist in Russian society. For the longest time, Russia's military posture was in a "fail deadly" mode. Positive controls were not in place to hold back an attack on the west. The Soviet Union was terribly concerned about a decapitating first strike by the west that would have left it's bombers, submarines and missile bases leaderless. Commanders were given unprecedented freedom to respond to an attack.

Tisha H, Gadsden, Alabama, United States

"why the term "scramble" for the norwegians?..."

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the term "scramble" means "(with reference to aircraft) take off or cause to take off immediately in an emergency or for action". You will note that it is used on several occassions in the article and is applied to both RAF and NATO aircraft - there is certainly no implication of incapability on any part.

KT, Oxford, UK

Sorry, couldn't use the WW2 fighters against the TU 05 they fly faster the they did. All you that hate the US should remember that a lot of you have freedom because of the US. But I guess that doesn't count for much does it.

lawrence, Dallas, US

What a bravura nonsense you are all guys saying here?! Are you anxoius about Russia is out of jet engines? Relax guys! Russia has MIG-29 OVT which jet engines and flight characteristics will stay a sweetest dream for RAF for at least 10 years! TU95 is a flying museum?! Oh, don't trouble yourself! Russia has TU-160 - Blackjack jet bombers. Just eat that truth! My respect to Desmond Taylor - the only sober and erudite person here.

Ivan Danko, Gadukino, Russia

Maybe the pilots wanted to claim asylum... Everyone else seems to.

cleverclogs, norwich, uk

"Lets cut off any aid we give"
"Let's (accidentally) shoot them down"

Wake up chaps,

Britain is not giving Russia any "aid" so there's nothing to cut off, I'm afraid. In fact it's Russian money that's propping up the London real estate market.

Also those (several) brave warriors who are suggesting shooting down a Russian patrol plane, have you stopped to think that at this very moment there are NATO (probably including British) aircraft and and submarines near, or even in, Russian territorial waters who might then be equally "accidentally" shot down or depth-charged by the Russians? A guy you went to school with might be on board. Stop to think about it before you rattle any more sabres.

Michael, Dubai,

Surely it is against International Law to send your Military against another Nation when not in a state of "war".
At the end of the day this is no different to someone at the end of the street pointing a gun at your kids as they play outside your front lawn.
Mr putin obviously cares neither for his own people and even less for ours. He is a very dangerous man with absolutely no respect or dignity for life or peace in the world.
Russia ought to be removed from the UN security council for its violation and threats.

Lije, London,

The level of ignorance and dismissal shown with regard to the Russian aircraft and the laisser faire attitude towards defence of British airspace on this board is amazing. Only a few know what they are talking about and they know who they are!

Thankfully we have people who know about these things and therefore our country can take appropriate action. I'd hate to have to rely on the laymen here for air defence.

Russ, Bristol, UK

Russia is just showing off its military muscles, so what?, by highlighting this show of force we are giving Putin maximum propoganda points.

I doubt very much that Putin and his military wish to start any sort of armed conflict with any of the NATO members, so for some people who have mentioned launching missiles at these planes, I can only say grow up.

The West needs Russia as much as Russia needs the West, so lets stop with the cold war rhetoric and start behaving like grown ups.

Joseph, Maastricht, The Netherlands

"Russia's real problem is that its population is drinking, drugging and aborting itself out of existence."

John Huettner

Well, you could say that about the UK...

Michael Elliott, Dover, UK,

Its just the Russian's way of shouting," Hey we are still here and we have muscles, so start listening to us again!". The only problem is that if and when an incident occurs in the skies then this could escalate into serious consequences for us all. The Russians planes are old and sooner or later one will fall from the sky due to engine faliure.

John, Wolverhapmton, UK

What remains to advise such people who has the same opinion like Kris from London, UK? If you are so scared, spend your own family budget on building bombproof shelter. Maybe you'll feel yourself more defended...
What if Putin, reading your comments here, and being "obviously"a paranoid antidemocratic totalitarist, will send FSB hitmans with polonium or Russian bombers to assassinate you...??? Ha ha ha... It's an absurd.

Kirill, Vladivostok, Russian Federation

I am more concerned with the corruption in our own government.

Chris, Bristol, England

Has anyone told the Russians about marketing? You do not sabre rattle at the doorstep of your customers who buy your gas, oil and other natural resources.

The 'Russian Threat' makes nuclear power stations in the UK appear sensible. These power stations could also be scaled up to generate electricity for central heating instead of oil and gas. Additionally, I see that the US is currently doing some great work on sensible electric cars - with the electricity to recharge the batteries (similar to those in laptops) potentially supplied then by the nuclear power stations!

So perhaps it is time for 'Marketing 101' rather than 'Belligerance 101' in Moscow?

Freedom!, Taunton,

Eight planes approaching in formation, wow! That's serious test. I wonder how many bomber Russia has and could send at once. I don't think these planes are obsolete. They also have modern nuclear cruise missiles and may have nuclear bombs too. The US B-52 versions were also designed in the 60's and are still flying without any "duct tape".

Speaking about "duct tape", Russians are selling RD-180 rocket engine to Americans who use it in Atlas rockets and their space crafts are the most reliable in the world. I think it'd be better to stop provoking Russians with missile shield program, after all Russians are part of the European culture for centuries and we have lots in common.

Nick, Canada,

Some of the comments remind me of the film Independence Day when people without any instinctive understanding that they were in any danger were partying on the roof of buildings until........ The proverbial penny dropped.

Do any of you believe that anyone in any mind to defend their countries interests would fly all that hardware all that way without it being FULLY armed to the teeth?

By that I do not mean to suggest any intent was intended. But we should take the demonstration very seriously.

Chris Coles, Medstead, Alton, United Kingdom

Sometime it's best to just let the "Big Bears" have a little honey from the tree. That way they really think they are getting away with something. This is 2007 not 1967. Wake up guys and stop playing macho games Kremlin. Freedom will ring forever as long as there is one voice who wishes for it. No one and nothing can stop it.

G. Fazi, Shreveport, Louisiana

All the Russians are doing is testing the effectivness of our air defences, since they stopped theres flights in 92 their operational intellignece is out of date and maybe there after a few pictures of the Eurofighter since its only just come into service. The Bears are just recon aircraft they would not be able to survive for very long against modern fighters and missles, its the Backfires their the aircraft that are dangerous not Bears. Just hope this Labour Party hasnt starved the RAF of money to protect this island of ours.

Mark Ward, Wolverhampton, UK

That have got agitated? Flights were in the international air space. What claims? Also will fly further.

Alex, Saint-Petersburg, Russia

i dont have a beef in this fight, but it seems as if the
wastern world is making a big fuss out of this minor
thing for public consumption. The people sending these comments from the west seem to know a little
if any about aviation and military technology. they need some education. first that picture you see there is not real,it is a computer generated picture
. those planes, i mean the russian bear flies with other planes as we were told . where are those escort planes from this picture? those planes are even more modern than the B52S which were made around the same time. those planes ,the russian bear can fly at altitudes that the british fighter planes cannot reach, we are talking about sub space here, so when you guys talk,you should read first. the plane technology has not changed ever since, it is the same technology ever since. propellers are a defensive mechanism, they are not targeted by heat seeking missiles because they dont produce the heat required for the missiles.

john, heaven,

Big deal, those antiques would be easily blown out of the sky if they ever pose a threat, which they likely wont.

JD, London,

There is nothing unusual.
We ARE nation who have rights to breed an honorable race ... as you.
We have rights to defend ourself ... as you.
Nobody have right to impose new restrictions... even Americans.
Mind your own business. Don`t touch us, and we would be jolly friends.
Just be tolerant.
Pardon me for my English

Dmitry, Kiev, Ukraine xUSSR

The minute they fly into British airspace, they should be shot down. See how much Putin likes that.

Mike, Rochester, England

Hey Norman Conquest, look in your own back yard.
We dont really care about these flying dinosaurs, the Germans tried it once and got smashed. Small country as we are do you actuall believe we are scared of you-look im trembling!

But then Nu Lab doesnt reflect the feelings of the British people and would probably not react 'so as not to upset someone'

Mr H, Dalcrue, Scotland

I can't see anything to worry about- Russians annonce the flights and routes in advance, never enter the UK air-space, so what's the problem then? Do you really believe NATO bombers never carry out training missions or US aircrafts and submarines never visit areas near Russian borders? Probably it will be good beginning if we try to avoid double standards and to recognize others' right to do the same things we do. It will be also good to calm down a bit, because sometimes I have the feeling there is kind of hysteria about Russia on the media. Just have a look at some of the comments here and you can definitely see perfect examples of bias and McNamara style thinking and my impression is that Russian forums and media are much less hostile to UK and US, really. And finally- you can like it or not, but Russia can't be always in a crisis, and it's better for everyone if we live together as frends and partners, the Cold war is over, gentlemen! Good evening to all and take it easy!

Peter, Moscow, Russia

Do you really think we send THIS to bomb you??? These old tins are suitable for such missions no more! If we really wanted to, we would launch, for example, SU's - 35. If I'm not mistaken, this airplane is a bomber as well as interceptor. BUT. Who now wants a WW III? Personally Russians do not. So, this is nothing more than a political (not military) action.

Andrew, Russia,

Norman conquest, moscow, youre hilarious! Without the oil your precious Russia would again be the most repressive and messed up country in the world. Britain is a jewel compared to the wasteland that is mother Russia but then again your country has a documented history of psychotic war mongers at the helm, Stalin now Putin. Maybe elect someone who doesnt have a murky past in the secret service and try a familyman instead.

M Samson, London,

There are elections in the near future. The difference is that, after years in the doldrums, the Russian people are actually enjoying this new muscle flexing which, in the end, will enure to Putin's benefit. Of real value? Hardly. Should not have scrambled the Typhoons, though. Keep 'em guessing as to the Eurofighter's true capabilities. Since they lost their former, albeit, forced client states in eastern Europe, Russia is courting such dubious individuals such as Chavez in order to sell him all sorts of items. While he may be a vulgar thug, he is a rich vulgar thug - at least until the wells dry up. Same with Indonesia who should best spend its capital on improving its citizens' living standard. So, let them fly Bears, Blackjacks and Backfires. Send up the older equipment to challange them only at the end. And, no, it is highly unlikely that a Russian preemptive strike upon the UK is in the offing. Were it so, other measures could then be applied.

Mario, Miami, FL/US

No amount of money is too much when it comes to the defence of our beloved nation. I sincerely hope that if these Russian bombers infringe upon our air-space that they are duly shot down. Our history is littered with the results of appeasement. The Russians understand and respect strength. Any other method is doomed to failure and will only encourage Putin and his mob of legalised hitmen to go much further. Thank God for The Royal Air Force and all our other brave servicemen and women. We can sleep because they never do.

J Nowland, Leeds, United Kingdom

Why only 4 RAF planes? We should send up 100 RAF fighter bombers and completely surround the enemy ... plus send up some BBC folks too ... As John Smeaton would say "We'll set about ye" !

Philip, Lux-Bonnevoie, Luxembourg

Russia is already back in the Cold War gear. Russian people are being lied to by their own state, the limitations on their freedoms are nearing the levels of Stalinist's times, anybody who dares to say anything against the state or Putin is being persecuted. The recent actions of Russian government (killings of Politkovskaya, Litvinenko and many more, blackmail of neighbouring countries, these flights of bombers) shows the weakness of the state and paranoid fear of democracy from it's leaders. We should realise now that public opinion in Russia is such that all the west is again considered as enemy number one.

Kris, London, UK

Ooo scary! I assume this is an attempt to wind up the little englanders and get a bigger budget for the RAF next year. My biggest gripe is the waste of my tax payer's pound to send overgrown schoolboys charging around the skies

Marc , London,

Reading some comments makes impression, that some people from the so called "West", especially from US and UK are still afraid of "Cold War". Why do you really think that you should be afraid of Russia? In Russia nobody even dares to think about any military conflict with "West", nobody wants to make military block with Iran, nobody wants to turn back to the times of totalitarism and "steel curtain". If you try to read any russian press or watch TV you'll never hear about the West like an potential enemy. Most of russian people want to live like in the West. But why do "some people" try to make some KGB-commie-monster from Russia, surround it with missile shield, and blame it every time when it has it's own opinion in worlds politics?
And who regular breaks international law according to it's own interests. Just think up who started most of war conflicts in the last 15 years? In Afghanistan, in Jugoslavia, in Iraq... ??? Who World should be afraid of? P.S. sorry for my bad English.

Kirill, Vladivostok, Russian Federation

To Mark of London....that was a good one!..lol

To Kirill of Vladivistok...why haven't we stopped? I imagine for the same reason your ballistic submarines still run our coastline.

To J.R. of Delaware...You have to watch comments like that here J.R. You know...they already think we're trigger happy neo conservative gun toting nuts over here...lol. They prefer soft talk to tough talk in these pages. Besides...a soviet S.A.M would probably miss!

I agree with the others. Stop intercepting them and divert the money to your frontline troops. I think those aircraft could be better used flying air support for your men. Wasn't that the complaint a few weeks ago here during the friendly fire deaths. That they didn't have enougn British aircraft, and had to call in the Americans?

Murph, Madisonville, USA/KY

How about we start talking again before rain gets into the electrics?

Sonnenblume, Nederlands,

Why scramble? Let one definitively enter your airspace and then knock it out of the sky with ground-based missiles. It will put an end to the silly cat and mouse game, and serve warning to Putin that you are serious about your territorial integrity.

Ross, Wyoming, USA

Russia is already back in the Cold War gear. Russian people are being lied to by their own state, the limitations on their freedoms are nearing the levels of Stalinist's times, anybody who dares to say anything against the state or Putin is being persecuted.
The recent actions of Russian government (killings of Politkovskaya, Litvinenko and many more, blackmail of neighbouring countries, these flights of bombers) shows the weakness of the state and paranoid fear of democracy from it's leaders.
We should realise now that public opinion in Russia is such that all the west is again considered as enemy number one.

Kris, London, UK

To the Norwegian: "scramble" doesn't mean the Norwegians are incapable - its the normal word for launching planes without notice to intercept other planes. Its used in reference to the RAF too, in the article.

Ed, Maidenhead,

"why the term "scramble" for the norwegians?..."

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the term "scramble" means "(with reference to aircraft) take off or cause to take off immediately in an emergency or for action". You will note that it is used on several occassions in the article and is applied to both RAF and NATO aircraft - there is certainly no implication of incapability on any part.

KT, Oxford, UK

Has anyone noticed the contrast between the way in which the UK government responds to a mainly symbolic gesture from a country that is no threat to us (Russia flying old planes on a training mission) and its response to a country which has been involved in murdering British soldiers in Iraq and supporting fundamentalist militias (Iran). Where precisely have our Typhoons and Tornados and other military resources been while this has been going on - not forgetting, of course the abduction of British military personnel by Iran?

Is it possible that this Government's foreign policy dominated as it is by left-wing dogma finds Mr Putin a very convenient authoritarian 'bogeyman' to score points off whilst conveniently ignoring the real and more difficult threats to the UK?

John Kelly, Manchester, UK

to the comment - what could russia want from the uk? we have nothing other than drunkards, teenage hookers and drug addicts... well most of the hookers are russian, russia has more registered alcoholics per capita than any european nation and i'd imagine most russians would be on drugs if they could afford them. perhaps the bombers crew were making a break for freedom and democracy but were turned back by our border patrols? perhaps they wanted to know whether we too wear mottled 80's style blue jeans two inches too short with socks and an acdc vest below our mulleted heads?

andy, newcastle,

"neutral waters" so said the Drobyshevsky.

What exact waters do they recognize, given Russia's flag claims to the North Pole ?

Regarding the N Pole if the Bear's expansionistic flag plantings are successful, can they build their own platform above the water's surface to provide a hard top landing for any manner of commercial and defense interests ? How would this change the strategic issues of England, Scandinavia, Canada, and the U.S. And if theBear's arctic water-land mass claims succeed, will it enjoy (claim) International Treaty rights to 200 mile territorial limits. Will this then push back other nations air flight, oil and fishing rights ?

Russ, Portland, Oregon

The British RAF is becoming a bit jumpy. Why there is so much panic and over-reaction if these aircraft are flying over international airspace? As well these bombers were on a patrol mission, so they were not armed with nuclear wapons. Americans were and are flying their bombers all the time and no one is jumping around. It looks like that UK wants to create another "issue" with Russia, as though the problems that UK has already are not enough. This shows the very low level of intellect on the current UK goverment. It creates artificial problems and doesn't solve the real ones: Iraq. When Russia stopped these patrols 15 years ago, the West saw this as a sign of weakness. The West must learn to live with stronger Russia now, whether it likes it or not.

Oleg, Toronto, Canada

Good grief. So many hate mongering comments. This news is only news because the Russians haven't been taking test flights outside of thier own airspace for a good few years. NATO never stopped, so why shouldn't they be able to make long range tests? Give some trust, Russia is not your enemy - come on!
J.R. Barnes - 'stray rouge missle' - I laughed out loud. Just how much red paint would that take?
Let go of the tabloid hatred people.

C. Dalton, Manchester, UK

Now the British can understand how much money Greece is forced to give for fuel and jets when everyday Turkish jet fighters enter Greece's air space.
However, it is very interesting to see the Kings of the world (U.S. and British) loose the throne once again...
We Greeks hate arrogance and kingdoms.

Michael Katsanakas, Thessaloniki, Macedonia/ Greece

It is not so long since HMS Albion was in St.Petersburg and Frigate HMS Portland was exercising in company with the Russian Cruiser No 650 Admiral Chabanyenko in mid-Atlantic.I do not see them as a threat ,they are not armed with primed weapons and if they are coming down on that long sweep around Lat80 and along the back of Norway they pass within the range of our Silent Service carrying all sorts of goodies which are safeguarding the approaches from Iceland on your left to Norway on your right. Brittania is alive and well patrolling this gap under the sea with an array of powerful weapons as we have done since 1968. these underwater giants are currently 16 thousand tonnes. If they did present a threat they would have been dealt with before they got near to Scotland.OldWavertonian

Gerald Morris, Waverton, Chester,, England.

There is no reasons try to intercept Russian bomber while they do not try rich border. Wasting time and money.

Valery, Riga, Latvia

Hey! Guys! We came for Berezovskiy and Zakaev!

From Russia with love!

ProTV stuff, Protvino, Russia

To my friend from Mosco, we have the 5th largest economy in the world. and we are, in effect a very small island. Thats what we have. In my opinion Putin is scrabling for Russian popularity, putting international security at stake. i myself am very unsettled, by what, at best is a naked offensive gesture! Putin should work with NATO, not provoke them when they are already on edge from terror attacks! Pilot training or not, keep them over Russia. If they fly a potentially nuke carrying plane near us again i suggest bearding them. Let them fly through our airspace, but give them an honour escort back to Russia. i'm sure they'd appriciate the gesture. Great Britain's security should not be compromised, nor should we roll over.

Ben, Carlisle, U.K.

RE: Are Russia airforce planes still using The Red Star in their wings?
As far as I know red star symbol wasn't changed after the fall of Soviet Union.

Mikhail, London, UK

quote "Cant they be scanned to see if they carry nuclear warheads?"

dont' think we're quite as advanced as Star Trek yet!!!

Rob (RAF), Salisbury, UK

Wow. How much duct tape is holding those planes together? Putin missed out on the Cold War, so now he's trying to put some pride into a military that was completely beaten by its own country's collapsed economy and pitiful centrally-planned economic system. I don't consider Russina bomber flights any kind of "irriatation." Rather, it's an interesting relic from a long-past age of imbecility whose only implications are internal to Russia.

Scott, Durham, NC, USA

Why don't we return the favour and start sending some bombers their way

dave anderson, glasgow, uk

They should chill out and see how far they will actually go into british airspace. If they go too far warn them. if they do it again shoot them down. other than that i really couldn't care .

Gabriel, Derry, N.I

Oil and gas.

Otherwise, for the rest of history, we have been (and are) friends.

Less posturing, more pragmatic acceptance of human nature.

CT, haslemere,

What a criminal waste of aviation fuel, and what a cruel blow against the already melting ice-caps!
Pathetic. It reminds me of De Gaulle's fatuous attempts to restore France's world role by (inter alia) developing a "tous-azimuts" nuclear deterrent. Talk about a frog puffing itself up to try to look like an ox, as in La Fontaine's fable...

J.Fletcher, Canterbury, UK

This makes me very angry, Putin is seriously pushing his luck, why cant we take some American advice, and 'accidentally' shoot one of these planes down.

Russia, HA!

Its Cold, Poor and full of Mafia influence. Lets cut off any aid we give, setup embargos, close flights, call back the diplomats and let China and North Korea have them.

They all deserve to kill each other in nuclear war, if Russia can borrow a bomb thats not 40 years old!

Jon.

Jon Bailey, Manchester, UK

Its the US that is disturbing the "calm water" with its missile shield program....I'm not russian nor US citizen but now I can see clearly that the expansionist vision of GB is rolling us back to cold war again.
The US as to stop with the insanity of the missile shield interceptors in europe ....the US can place the interceptors in the Netherlands or in Spain/Italy ....more far apart from the russian borders.

pp, paris,

Sometimes it is best to let the "Big Bear" have a little of the honey from the tree. Therefore he thinks he really is getting something "special and tabu". In reality this is the year 2007 not 1967 and as long as there is one person who desires freedom there will be freedom. Somewhere, somehow. It will happen. Thank God for the United States and for freedom of choice. Remember folks, charity begins at home.

G. Fazi, Shreveport, Louisiana

Putin's acting like a fool. Russia has only just recovered from the Economic problems caused by the last cold war, yet he seems determined to plunge it into another. The probing of air defences is an offensive gesture. If he really desires a strong Russia, the he should work with NATO instead of provoking them at a time when they are already on high alert from a multitude of terrorist attacks. I think this is nothing more then a desperate gamble to win popularity, with the safety of Europe and Asia as the stakes.

Ben, Carlisle, U.K.

I don´t understand all the fuss. If they are not a threat let them fly on, if they are then simply wait until they enter UK airspace and then shoot them down. Seriously, I don´t believe the figures about the cost - I am sure the aircraft that intercepted the bears routinely fly training missions of equivalent cost. We should be grateful that the Russians are providing free training and marketing opportunities for our new aircraft.

Dave Edgars, Wakefield, Yorkshire

I belive its just the Russians rattling the sabre, shouldn't we just leave them be untill they enter our airspace then send them home with there tail between there legs.

Jonathan, Bolton, England

Money well spent, well done the RAF.
How would teenage unmarried mothers and immigrants cause the bombers to turn back? This is where our money is being wasted.
Still, I suppose it gives the flacid liberal twits in our society something to bitch about.

Pete, St Albans, UK

Scramble and intercept make such good headlines, and are very emotive words. I would have thought launch(or despatch), and observe were more appropriate.

Jim D, Norwich, uk

Next time, why not scramble a Cessna with a crossbow sticking out the window? That's about the right level of technology, and cheaper too. And has the added benefit of insulting the Russians.

William McIlhagga, Bradford,

The flight profile of these aircraft during the "Cold War" was from airbases up on the Kola Peninsula, down the coast of Norway at which point they would either fly down the North Sea and the English Channel, or, fly out to the West of the UK and Ireland, across the Bay of Biscay down the coast of Spain and Portugal and into the Mediterranean. They would take on fuel off Alboran (A Soviet Fleet anchorage) then fly on across the Black sea to land at airbases in the Crimea. Their task was Electronic Surveillance, and they were shadowed almost every mile of the way.

The main threat posed by such flights, particularly those out to the West of the UK, lay in the massive amount of CW or BW agents these aircraft could carry and release unseen by the shadowing fighters. Apart from nuisance value these current flights only test the reaction times of the Royal Norwegian Air Force and ourselves.

Bill, Stavanger, Norway

It is good practise for the British pilots too. The more cockpit time we get in these new planes, the more effective the RAF can be in the advent of air to air combat.

The British RAF need to intercept these planes to ENSURE the safety of the British people.

Luke Fullard, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Why the term "scramble" for the norwegians? is it an implication that they are incapable?

a capable norwegian, london, united kingdom

To:
Kirill, Vladivostok, Russian Federation
Any idea what type of US planes are being used on those patrols? Just curious. I'm glad to see the Bears are still going, and I bet you Russians are too. I'm going to miss the Buff''s (B52's) when they're all gone. But I think we should paint flowers and butterflies on all the B52's and TU-95's and have them drop chocolate bars and cabbage's on all their patrols. Like or not, we're all in the same world. All this posturing as though that fact was otherwise is nonsense.

Roger Browning, Lake Mills, Wisconsin, USA

What year is this anyway, 1962?

I thought we were through with this kind of horse manure tactics.

I guess some things just never change...

Erick, Heredia, Costa Rica

If Putin wants to fly his antiquated bombers around the north atlantic, well let him.These aircraft were designed as a strategic bomber as was the jet engined B-52. The age of the strategic bomber finished in the late 60's and is now as redundant as the battleship. The only thing noteworthy about these aircraft is that they use turbo-prop engines which at the time were technically superior. Unfortunaly the west equipped all their strategic bombers with jets. I wonder if Mr. Putin will allow this flying museum to appear at British airshows next summer

Mike, London, England

Maybe hitting the Russia bombers with a few "Giant Paintballs" would leave the Russians less Smirky when they returned to base. Perhaps a "Stinky Shot" of some kind that left a "Skunky Odor" that SPLATTERED and LINGERED and was next to impossible to wash off? This Russian Foolishness will all end / start when a RAF "Rogue Pilot" has a Trigger Finger slip and "accidentally" shoots one down 'ala the "Accidental" USA / French Embassy hit in Libya a few years ago? (If you're gonna Shoot---Don't miss boys!!) GO RAF!!

Theron Helton, Taylorville, USA/ Illinois

Don't worry, britanskis. these flights are not aimed at you -- just training missions strictly in international airspace. Besides, get real -- you have nothing anybody could possibly want. what do you have, except millions of drunkards, pregnant teenage hookers and drug addicts?

norman conquest, moscow,

Agree with micheal clarke. Just let them in.

Mr Boston, london, uk

If we just ignored them what will they do absolutely nothing if you try to antagonise someone the fun soon goes out of it if they dont respond.

john, milton keynes, bucks

Russia is not stopping US planes patrolling its borders and they have been doing this for years. Russia is not putting nuclear interceptors next to US borders anywhere as far as I know. Russian planes have not been shadowing NATO planes. I don't think Russian considers US or NATO as the enemy but I am not sure about the opposite.
Looks to me like the only country not playing cold war is Russia. Putin is just showing the hipocricy of US and UK.
Wake up - the cold war is over and Russia is not your enemy and does not want to be.

Lena, Moscow,

Quote "it has propeller's... seriously... send up a hawker hurricane instead"

The TU-95 can cruise around for 15+hours at 450knots unrefuelled, it has a radar guided tail-gun, supersonic propellors (that make a massive racket when you get near!), carries air-launched cruise missiles (that can be nuclear tipped) and can fly above 40,000ft - a Hurricane couldn't climb to intercept let alone shoot it down!

Don't be fooled by its appearance - this is a serious bit of aviation technology that can project global military strike capabilities to most of the Western world - something the RAF lost with the Vulcan some 20 years ago.

Lecture over...

James Bigglesworth, Lincoln, UK

This is blatant sabre-rattling but that is it - for now. Any more and we will have to follow the example of Georgia and shoot one down.

Ben, York,

Does anyone really think the Russians are going to bomb us? Anyone?

Farrukh, Woking, UK

Eight bears at once? Ugly beasts, but this is Putin's response to Bush's proposals to invade Iran; Putin's way of saying the Russians won't bother to waste words on us.

H. Grattan, Johannesburg, RSA

Your article doesn't mention the US tearing up SALT and reintroducing nukes to the picture. That seems quite a huge omission.

Seán, Dublin, Ireland

It's got propellers for God's sake! Much ado about nothing if you ask me.

Rod Polisher, Scunthorpe, UK

Why are we playing their game. If they wish to waste money by posturing let them or does this government belief that Russia given an inch will attach if so tell us otherwise let them play silly boy games on their own.

Andy, Ryde,

Its cost the RAF £161,000 ! Oh dear me. That was money spent letting the Russian Air Force know we haven't fallen asleep, what about all the tens of billions the Nu Labor government has wasted during the last ten years ! A £161,000 is a drop in the ocean.

Phil de Buquet, Newport, England

I take it this doesn't mean the Russians think they now 'own' the Arctic, the amount of times they've flown over it of late?

Denis, Ealing,

this is not a comment but a cuestion:
Are Russia airforce planes still using The Red Star in their wings?

Javier Zurdo, Madrid, Spain

Why all this clamour and alarm? Nobody else stopped their flights, and Russia only did it for lack of funding.

The media needs to stop this rampant Russophobia. Now. It's really not good.

Personally, I like resurgent Russia. Putin isn't Stalin, and this world needs a power big, strong and brave enough to stop America from lording over the planet like this Earth is its own personal fiefdom.

Shredni Vashtar, North Ayrshire, Scotland

What do they thing they are going to achieve? Do they think it is intimidating? Well it isn't! They should put their ancient old resources to far better use by recycling them into aluminum cans!!!

Matt, England,

Spitfires and Hurricanse could have shot them down, the Australians say their subs are far superior to the ones Indonesia is looking at, and Russia's real problem is that its population is drinking, drugging and aborting itself out of existence.

The Russians should start advertising for American grooms instead of Russian brides.

John Huettner, Cleveland, Ohio, USA

I don't quite understand the reference to cost for these interceptions - presumably these Tornado F3's don't normally sit on the ground all week collecting cobwebs, their young aircrew and ground staff twiddling their thumbs.
Instead of boring training flights they now have real, objective missions to fulfill, which might in the future prove useful in some way: and they now know how big these "B*****rs" are: hopefully they won't bang into their wings accidentally.

To Kirill, Vladivostok, I say "Yes!"
It is a good practice all round - your younger pilots need it too; I imagine most of your 'cold war' pilots have retired through age and epic boredom.
As for US planes patrolling Russian borders, I can only guess that we in the West still don't trust you entirely yet - So sorry.

Mike Medina, St. Albans, England

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Paul, Huntsville, AL, USA

it has propeller's... seriously... send up a hawker hurricane instead

mark, london,

Go comrades go

Tom Anderson, London,

The TU 95 H/MC versions of this bomber were built in the mid 90's. They have been updated as needed. The B-52G/H versions were built in the 60's. No one is saying that they have been taken out of ' mothballs'. Also no one says the B 52 is obsolescent, in fact they will be 100 years old when finally retired. Can we just assume that the Russians can look after their aircraft as well as us. If the RAF is worrying about the cost of playing with their new toy, they should sell them. The RAF can then buy enough helicopters/ground attack aircraft to support the troops in Iraq/Afghanistan.

Desmond Taylor, Houston, USA Texas

Absolute waste of time and money "intercepting" these things. If they enter UK airspace shoot them down otherwise they can tour around the North Sea as much as they like. Cant they be scanned to see if they carry nuclear warheads?

peter dalton, limassol,

Maybe a 'stray rouge missle' might keep the bastards on their leash. Alot cheaper than 161.000 Brit. I think we can find an old Soviet S.A.M., somewhere boys!

J.R. Barnes, Hockessin, DE U.S.A.

Why bother to intercept them? Their overflights could become a tourist attraction.

michael clarke, Leningrad, uk

But why have US airplanes never stopped patrolling russian borders? Is it a good practice?

Kirill, Vladivostok, Russian Federation

Why is this item news worthy? THey Bears werent even in out airspace? Why are we scambling jets when they arent in our airspace. We should just blow them up the minute the cominto UK territory! Using our new anti-terrorist laws.

Bruani, London,

This is nothing to worry about. The Russian Bear aircraft is obselete. If they start launching Backfire bombers to probe our airspace, then that's something to take note of.

Ed Marriott, London,

I am not to sure the reason for mentioning the cost of intercepting these Russian bombers. If Mr Evans considers it a lot of money, I do not, then maybe he can suggest an alternative way, such as ignoring the bombers completely.

P.Robinson, Northants, UK

"four Tornados to intercept eight Russian long-range Bear bombers"

How quaint, a plane from the 50's being shadowed by a plane from the 70's, it's like a historical re-enactment.

Perhaps we could dust off a couple of Spitfires for a laugh...

JonB, Glasgow, UK