Chinese and Russian Military Planes Spotted Near Alaska

Two Chinese and two Russian military planes were tracked flying over international waters near Alaska, prompting a response from US and Canadian fighter jets. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) stated that the activity posed no threat but emphasized ongoing monitoring of competitor movements near North America.

Two Chinese and two Russian military planes were tracked flying over international waters near Alaska, prompting swift action from US and Canadian fighter jets, according to their joint aerospace command.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) stated that the Chinese and Russian military activity on Wednesday was not perceived as a threat.

"NORAD will continue to monitor competitor activity near North America and meet presence with presence," the command said in a news release.

While Russia has historically been active in the North Pacific, China has recently expanded its naval and aerial presence, extending their activity further from their shores.

In mid-July, Chinese naval ships were observed in international waters near Alaska, spotted within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, just 200 nautical miles from shore.

The recent incident involved Chinese and Russian planes flying within the North American U.S. Air Defence Identification Zone, an area beyond U.S. and Canadian airspace where aircraft must be identified for national security.

(With inputs from agencies.)