Russian MiG-31 aircraft with hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and Tu-22M3 bombers patrolled the western border of Russia over the Baltic waters. During the flight, the crews of the MiG-31 aircraft practiced in-flight refueling from the Il-78 aircraft. Fighter escort was also provided by Russian Su-30SM and Su-35S aircraft. At certain stages of the route, Russian aircraft were accompanied by Finnish F-18 fighters armed with AIM-9 air-to-air missiles.