NORAD Jets Intercept Russian and Chinese Bombers Near Alaska

Navid

Navid

July 25, 2024

USNI reporting – On Wednesday, Russia and China conducted a joint bomber flight that entered Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), marking their first flight near the United States. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) monitored the flight, which involved two Chinese H-6 bombers and two Russian TU-95 bombers, and noted that the aircraft remained in international airspace without entering American or Canadian sovereign airspace. The interception by Canadian and U.S. fighters emphasized the importance of monitoring such activities, which were not deemed an immediate threat but highlighted the ongoing strategic vigilance by NORAD.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, addressing the media, stated that the joint flights were anticipated and that the U.S. was well-prepared to respond to any future incidents. Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan described the flights as an escalation, urging enhanced U.S. military capabilities in the Arctic to counter the growing cooperation between Russia and China. The joint flight, part of the 2024 military cooperation plan between the two countries, involved air patrol over the Chukchi Sea, Bering Sea, and northern Pacific Ocean, with Russian and Chinese crews practicing cooperation during the patrol. The flight, lasting over five hours, involved no violations of international airspace laws.

China’s Ministry of National Defense highlighted that this was the eighth strategic air cruise since 2019, aiming to improve collaboration between the two air forces and strengthen mutual strategic trust. While these joint flights have previously occurred over the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and Philippine Sea, the recent patrol in a new area near U.S. territory indicates a possible increase in such activities in the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea. Japan views these operations as a demonstration of force and a concern for its national security, contrasting with Russia and China’s stance that these are routine drills under their annual military cooperation plan.

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