Royal Norwegian Air Force Intercepts a Russian SU-34 for the first time

A pair of Norwegian F-16s intercepted a Russian flight of mighty Su-34 'Fullback' fighter bombers off the coast of Finmark this week. It is said that this was the first time that Norway has intercepted the greatly enhanced deep strike optimized variant of the Su-27 Flanker.
Roughly analogous to something between an F-111 and an F-15E Strike Eagle, the Su-34 Fullback is widely regarded as the most advanced tactical jet is Russia's growing arsenal. From hauling massive supersonic anti-radiation missiles, to escorting itself at low-level deep into enemy territory to strike targets with its on-board laser designator, the Su-34 is a feared asset indeed.
It is not clear exactly how many Su-34s were tracked during the Norwegian intercept, but pictures show a single example flying alongside an armed Norwegian Viper. The big charcoal gray Russian attack fighter is seen carrying just a pair of R-73 air-to-air missiles and a huge ventral drop tank.
foxtrotalpha