NORAD Jets Intercept Russian Bombers, Fighters and A‑50 Near Alaska ADIZ
Feb 20
Developing
2
NORAD scrambled two F‑16s, two F‑35s, an E‑3 AWACS and four KC‑135 tankers to intercept, identify and escort two Russian Tu‑95 bombers, two Su‑35 fighters and an A‑50 reconnaissance plane near the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone. NORAD said the aircraft remained in international airspace and were not seen as a threat, noting such activity is routine in the non‑sovereign ADIZ, and the intercept was reported amid broader regional tensions as the U.S. moved the carrier Gerald R. Ford toward the Middle East amid claims Iran is restoring enrichment at Isfahan.
U.S.–Russia Military Activity
Arctic and Alaska Security
U.S.–Russia Military Encounters Near Alaska