Washington, DC, February 22 - The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) recently scrambled U.S. fighter jets to intercept five Russian military aircraft operating in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) off the western coast of Alaska near the Bering Strait. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, involved two Tu-95 long-range strategic bombers, two Su-35 fighter planes, and one A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft. These Russian warplanes were detected and tracked while remaining in international airspace, without entering sovereign U.S. or Canadian territory. Such encounters highlight ongoing monitoring efforts in this strategically sensitive region, where the ADIZ extends beyond national borders to allow early detection of potential aerial approaches.
In response, NORAD launched a coordinated interception mission featuring advanced U.S. fighter jets, including two F-16 Fighting Falcons and two F-35 Lightning IIs, supported by one E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control aircraft and four KC-135 Stratotanker refueling planes. The U.S. aircraft successfully intercepted the Russian formation, positively identified each plane, and escorted them until they departed the Alaskan ADIZ. This professional and routine operation ensured clear communication and de-escalation, preventing any misunderstanding in a high-stakes environment where rapid response is essential for North American air sovereignty.
NORAD officials emphasized that the Russian activity, while closely monitored, posed no immediate threat and was characterized as a regular occurrence in the area. These intercepts are part of standard air defense protocols designed to safeguard the airspace approaches to the United States and Canada. The deployment of fifth-generation F-35s alongside proven F-16s demonstrates the readiness and technological edge of the U.S. Air Force in maintaining vigilance over remote northern frontiers.
This event underscores the importance of robust aerial surveillance and interception capabilities amid persistent long-range patrols by foreign military aircraft near Alaska. Similar incidents have occurred periodically, reflecting the geopolitical dynamics in the Arctic and Pacific regions. NORAD's swift and effective handling reaffirms the commitment to continental defense without escalation.
