Russian Warplanes Detected Near Alaska by NORAD

North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) confirmed the detection and tracking of four Russian warplanes flying close to Alaska. The military aircraft were observed in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Regular russian activity

NORAD emphasized that the Russian aircraft remained within international airspace and did not breach American or Canadian sovereign airspace. This type of Russian activity in the Alaska ADIZ is a regular occurrence and is not considered a threat.

Russian confirmation

Russia subsequently acknowledged that two of its Tu-95 bombers flew over waters near Alaska, with the flight lasting approximately 9 hours and being escorted by SU-30SM fighter jets, according to a report by Reuters.

Heightened military activity

While this recent incident did not pose a risk, it comes against a backdrop of heightened military activity in the area. In August, the U.S. Navy deployed destroyers to the Alaskan coast following the sighting of 11 Russian and Chinese warships in nearby international waters.

Series of encounters

The incident marks the latest in a series of encounters this year; in February, American warplanes intercepted Russian military aircraft near Alaska on two separate occasions in the same week.

NORAD's role

NORAD relies on a "layered defense network" comprising satellites, ground-based and airborne radars, and fighter jets to monitor and identify aircraft. The Alaskan NORAD Region maintains constant surveillance of North American airspace to ensure 24/7 awareness of activities in the region.