Yes, it is possible for fighter jets from different countries to fly next to each other and for their pilots to wave to each other. Such interactions often occur during routine encounters, exercises, or international airshows. Here’s how and why it happens:
Routine Encounters
Intercepts:
When an aircraft enters or approaches another country’s airspace, it is common for fighter jets to be scrambled to identify and monitor the aircraft. These encounters are usually professional and peaceful. After identifying the intruding aircraft, the pilots may fly close enough to visually communicate or observe each other.
A wave, nod, or simple acknowledgment is not unusual as a gesture of professionalism.
International Waters or Airspace:
Military aircraft often operate in international airspace where encounters with jets from other nations are routine. In such cases, there is no hostile intent, and pilots may signal each other with a wave.
Joint Exercises and Training
Multinational Military Exercises:
Air forces from different countries often conduct joint training exercises. During these exercises, fighter jets from various nations may fly in formation, communicate, and even engage in mock dogfights. Pilots often wave to one another as a friendly gesture of camaraderie.
Airshows and Demonstrations:
At international airshows, jets from different nations are displayed, and pilots sometimes perform coordinated flying or interact in friendly ways.
Historical and Anecdotal Examples
Cold War Encounters:
Even during tense times, there are numerous anecdotes of NATO and Soviet pilots exchanging waves during encounters over international waters or borders.
For example, in the 1980s, U.S. and Soviet pilots occasionally waved to each other when intercepting reconnaissance or bomber aircraft.
Modern Examples:
Encounters between Chinese and U.S. aircraft in the South China Sea, or Russian and NATO aircraft in the Baltic region, are modern examples where pilots may visually interact, though these can range from professional to tense.
Safety and Protocol
Distance:
While flying close to each other, strict safety protocols are observed to ensure there is no risk of collision. Close proximity usually means a few hundred meters at the closest.
Communication:
Pilots may use hand signals or even radio communication (if on agreed frequencies) to ensure mutual understanding.