RAF Jet Carrying UK Defence Secretary Targeted by Suspected Russian GPS Jamming

An RAF jet carrying UK Defence Secretary John Healey experienced GPS jamming while returning from Estonia, where he visited British troops. The incident occurred on May 21, 2026, as the aircraft flew near the Russian border, lasting the entire three-hour flight. Passengers, including military officials and journalists, were unable to connect their devices to the internet due to the disruption. The UK Ministry of Defence suspects Russian involvement, describing the interference as reckless. This incident follows a pattern of similar electronic warfare tactics attributed to Russia, including a previous jamming event in March 2024 involving another RAF flight. The RAF pilots successfully navigated using backup systems, ensuring the flight's safety despite the interference. The UK government has condemned the actions as dangerous and unacceptable.

Key Points: • An RAF jet carrying Defence Secretary John Healey was jammed near the Russian border. • The GPS disruption lasted three hours, affecting internet connectivity on board. • This incident is part of a broader pattern of Russian electronic warfare tactics.