As stated repeatedly by Russian security officials, all routine flights conducted by Russian military aircraft are held in compliance with international regulations on the use of airspace over neutral waters and do not violate sovereign borders or foreign airspace.
In the event of "rude" behavior, NATO Baltic air-policing mission jets are scrambled in the air to identify the aircraft type, flight plans and inquire whether it needs assistance.
"Estonian Defense Forces do not notify of such cases. Certainly, in cases of air border violations, the general public is notified. If Russian planes, however, do not follow the rules of courtesy, we do not inform of that either. Latvians and Lithuanians are doing otherwise in this regard," Laats said.
Russia's long-range aviation has been steadily increasing the number and duration of planned flights in recent years, causing NATO to voice concern over alleged violations of the airspace of member states. Meanwhile, the military alliance has been building up its presence in Eastern Europe, sending tanks and paratroopers to hold military drills along Russia's western borders.
