US and Canada intercept jets from Russia and China near Alaska

NORAD: US and Canada intercept Chinese and Russian bombers near Alaska

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) reported that the United States and Canada intercepted two Chinese bombers and two Russian bombers operating in international airspace near Alaska. The aircraft were detected within Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) but did not enter sovereign airspace and were not considered a threat.

NORAD stated that it will continue to monitor competitor activity near North America and respond appropriately. Intercepting an aircraft involves making contact with a foreign aircraft through electronic or visual means.

Several countries, including the US, China, India, and Japan, have established ADIZs that require foreign military aircraft to identify themselves upon entry. While not recognized in international law or overseen by any international body, these zones help countries monitor air activity near their borders.

Russian military activity near Alaska is not uncommon, as evidenced by previous incidents of Russian warplanes operating in the area. The recent interception of US bombers by Russian fighters over the Barents Sea also highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.