RAF Typhoon jets have intercepted a pair of Russian fighter jets and a spy plane flying close to NATO airspace above the Baltic Sea.

In a joint mission with the German Air Force, RAF pilots intercepted the three Russian aircraft over the Gulf of Finland.

The RAF said one jet was identified as a Russian intelligence aircraft flying from mainland Russia to the Kaliningrad enclave, which lies near Poland.

It was met by two Russian fighter jets based in Kaliningrad, which flew with it south through the northwest area of the Estonian flight zone.

RAF and German Typhoons escorted the aircraft through the area before handing over to the Swedish Air Force.

"We often see Russian military aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea and so this was a routine intercept for us. 

"Nevertheless, the importance of intercepting these aircraft and our commitment to the collective defence of NATO airspace remains steadfast and resolute," an RAF pilot said in a statement on the force's website.

British and German air forces are working alongside each other as part of Operation Azotize to protect the eastern flank of NATO's border.

(Source: Sky News)