U.S. F-16 fighter jets intercepted Russian spy planes flying near Alaska on two consecutive days this week, as reported by North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).
In separate incidents on Wednesday and Thursday, Russian IL-20 surveillance and reconnaissance planes entered the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), initiating a response from NORAD.
On Wednesday, NORAD deployed a pair of F-16 Fighting Falcons and a KC-135 Stratotanker, which provided refueling support while monitoring the Russian aircraft. The following day, NORAD again dispatched two F-16s and a KC-135, in addition to an E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft, to intercept and observe the IL-20.
Throughout both days, the Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not breach U.S. or Canadian sovereign airspace, according to NORAD. The Alaskan ADIZ is a defined section of international airspace that requires aircraft entering it to be identified for national security purposes.
NORAD noted that Russian activity in the Alaskan ADIZ is a common occurrence and is not regarded as a threat. The last recorded entry of Russian aircraft into this zone was on July 22, with previous incursions occurring in February and another instance in April.
NORAD utilizes a multi-layered system comprising satellites, fighter aircraft, and both ground-based and airborne radars to detect and track aircraft approaching the U.S. These systems provide crucial information to military leaders, enabling them to execute appropriate responses.
The article was reported by Stephen Losey, an air warfare reporter for Defense News, who has experience covering various military operations and leadership issues.
