The United States scrambled fighter jets to intercept Russian military planes that flew near Alaskan airspace, according to a report by Newsweek. The incident occurred when the US Northern Command noted the presence of four Russian Tu-142 Bear aircraft flying within the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone.
The US F-22 fighter jets were launched from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska to intercept the Russian planes. The intercepts were carried out in a safe and professional manner, with the Russian aircraft remaining in international airspace throughout the encounter.
The Tu-142 Bear aircraft are maritime reconnaissance planes that are capable of carrying out anti-submarine warfare missions. This is not the first time Russian military aircraft have flown near Alaskan airspace, as similar incidents have occurred in the past.
The interception of Russian military planes by US fighter jets is a routine occurrence as both countries monitor each other’s military activities. The US Northern Command is responsible for defending the US homeland and coordinating with other agencies to respond to potential threats.
The incident comes amid increased tensions between the US and Russia over a range of issues, including military build-ups near the borders of Ukraine and Belarus. The US has also accused Russia of conducting cyber attacks and interference in US elections.
Despite these tensions, both countries have mechanisms in place to prevent accidental clashes between their military forces. The interception of Russian military planes demonstrates the US commitment to protecting its airspace and monitoring potential threats from foreign adversaries.
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