NORAD Scrambles Jets to Intercept Russian Aircraft Near Alaska

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) detected four Russian military aircraft operating in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) on Wednesday. This included two Tupolev Tu-95 strategic bombers and two Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets.

NORAD stated that the Russian aircraft did not enter U.S. or Canadian airspace, remaining in international airspace. NORAD responded by sending an E-3 Sentry surveillance plane, along with four F-16s and four KC-135 tankers, to positively identify and intercept the aircraft.

According to NORAD’s statement, such Russian military activity in the ADIZ is common and not considered a threat. However, the ongoing flights are viewed by many as a test of the readiness of U.S. and NATO allies.

The ADIZ marks an area where aircraft are required to identify themselves to ensure national security. The Russian military frequently conducts maneuvers in this zone, with similar activities reported in the recent past.

Earlier, on September 19, three Russian MiG-31 jets flew into the airspace of Estonia, prompting concerns from European defense officials. Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna labeled this as an unprecedented breach of their airspace.

NATO allies convened following recent incursions to discuss security measures. The organization’s Secretary General described Russia’s actions as escalating and expressed the commitment to defend allied territories.

As the situation continues to develop, officials maintain they are prepared for any potential threats arising from Russian military activities in or near the ADIZ.