Russian and Chinese Bombers Intercepted by American and Canadian Fighter Jets Near Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone

In a recent incident, two Russian and two Chinese bombers were intercepted while flying near American airspace.

This occurred just hours before President Joe Biden addressed the nation about his presidency.

American and Canadian fighter jets were quickly dispatched to intercept the approaching aircraft.

The bombers, consisting of Russian TU-95 ‘Bear’ turboprop strategic bombers and Chinese H-6 jet bombers, were detected by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

NORAD identified and tracked these planes as they entered the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone on Wednesday.

Thankfully, none of the aircraft crossed into American airspace; they remained in international waters until NORAD’s interceptors made contact.

Monitoring and Security

While the presence of these foreign planes in the Alaska ADIZ is not deemed an immediate threat, it is under constant surveillance.

The zone, stretching 150 miles from the coastline, is monitored by NORAD’s satellites, radar systems, and aircraft.

All planes entering this zone must identify themselves for national security purposes.

Context and Tensions

This interception occurs amid heightened tensions between the US and Russia, influenced by the ongoing war in Ukraine and escalating conflicts in the Middle East.

Experts have noted that global tensions are at levels not seen since at least the 1970s.

In a related development, President Biden delivered an 11-minute farewell address on Wednesday night, explaining his decision to step down from his bid for reelection.

He announced that he was passing the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris, citing the need for ‘younger voices’ to unite the country and preserve democracy.