NORAD Intercepts Russian and Chinese Bombers Near Alaska

NORAD intercepted Russian and Chinese bombers near Alaska, marking the first such joint operation response by the US. US F-16 and F-35 fighters and Canadian CF-18 jets ensured the aircraft did not enter US or Canadian sovereign airspace. This highlights evolving Arctic security dynamics.

The North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) has intercepted a group of bombers near Alaska, in the first instance of joint Russian and Chinese operations prompting such a response from the United States, CNN reported, citing a US defense official. NORAD confirmed the aircraft included two Russian TU-95 Bear bombers and two Chinese H-6 bombers, flying within the Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) over Alaska, strictly in international airspace and considered 'not a threat'.

The intercept, carried out by US F-16 and F-35 fighters alongside Canadian CF-18 jets, aimed to ensure the aircraft did not breach US or Canadian sovereign airspace. While encounters with Russian TU-95s are routine—such as an event involving four Russian aircraft in May—the inclusion of Chinese bombers is notable. The H-6 bombers, modernized versions of older Soviet models, entered Alaska's ADIZ for the first time, CNN reported.

Gen Gregory Guillot of US Northern Command stated during a Senate hearing earlier this year that China has shown increasing interest in the Arctic region. Citing China's strategic northward moves and growing Arctic involvement under scientific or technical missions with military implications, Guillot expressed concern. 'I expect to see air activity in the Alaska part of the Arctic as soon as this year,' Guillot said. The incident points to evolving dynamics in Arctic security, where Russia is joined by newer entrants such as China with aerial operations expanding beyond maritime activities.

While NORAD reiterated that the recent intercept did not escalate into a security breach, it underscores the ongoing vigilance in monitoring international airspace near sensitive zones, CNN reported (ANI).

(With inputs from agencies.)