The Independent reports on US interception of Russian aircraft

The North American Aerospace Defense Command (Norad) was put on high alert on Thursday evening as a Russian aircraft breached US airspace, prompting a swift interception by Norad fighter jets.

According to Norad, the Russian aircraft entered North America’s Air Defense Identification Zone, but did not violate US or Canadian airspace. The incident occurred during an annual Russian air force exercise near the coast of Alaska and Canada.

Maj Gen Brett Cairns, Norad director of operations, stated that F-15 and CF-18 fighter jets were launched to intercept the Russian Tu-95 Bear heavy bombers. While the interception was successful, the Pentagon confirmed that four Russian aircraft had entered the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone.

Despite the breach, the Pentagon emphasized that the Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not pose a direct threat to the US or Canada. This type of activity is said to occur regularly and is closely monitored by Norad to ensure the safety and security of North American airspace.

Norad’s response to the incident highlights the organization’s commitment to monitoring and defending the air approaches to North America. With a layered defense network in place, Norad remains prepared to respond to any potential threats in defense of North America.

The interception serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between Russia and the US, as both countries continue to conduct military exercises near each other’s borders.