NORAD Intercepts Russian and Chinese Bombers Near Alaska in Unprecedented Joint Operation
Washington, D.C. — The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) successfully intercepted two Russian TU-95 Bear and two Chinese H-6 bombers as they patrolled near Alaska on Wednesday. This operation marks a historic moment, being the first time Russian and Chinese warplanes have been intercepted operating in conjunction within the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
According to NORAD officials, the bombers remained in international airspace and posed “no threat” to U.S. or Canadian security. The intercept was conducted by U.S. F-16 and F-35 fighters alongside Canadian CF-18 jets.
China’s Defense Ministry confirmed the operation, describing it as a routine “joint strategic aerial patrol” under a pre-existing cooperation agreement between the two militaries, the eighth of its kind since 2019. Despite concerns regarding increasing military cooperation between Russia and China, an official stressed that the exercise adhered to international norms and was not aimed at third countries.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin acknowledged the incidents as part of ongoing patterns of testing by both nations. "They’re always testing us," he stated, adding that the U.S. maintains robust surveillance and interception capabilities, reassuring that the incident was anticipated.
Previously, Russian bombers have regularly entered Alaska’s ADIZ, while the appearance of Chinese aircraft is a relatively new development. Experts warn that as China positions itself as a "near-Arctic" state, the potential for increased military activity in the region may rise.
U.S. officials, including Senator Dan Sullivan, have voiced concerns over the escalating alignment of Russian and Chinese military operations, reaffirming that Alaska remains a frontline in countering authoritarian aggression.
The implications of this joint exercise underscore the strategic challenges facing U.S. defense in the Arctic and beyond.
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