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American and Canadian fighter aircraft intercepted two Russian and two Chinese nuclear-capable strategic bombers off the coast of Alaska on Wednesday, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said, the first time China’s planes have been detected near U.S. territory in the area.
NORAD intercepts Russian and Chinese strategic bombers near Alaska
North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) detected, tracked, and intercepted two Russian TU-95 and two Chinese H-6 strategic bombers operating in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the United States, Russia, and China in the Arctic region.
The ADIZ is a designated airspace where aircraft are required to identify themselves and state their intentions. While the Russian and Chinese bombers did not enter U.S. or Canadian airspace, their presence in the ADIZ is a provocative move. It serves as a reminder of the growing military capabilities of both countries and their willingness to challenge the U.S. in its own backyard.
The TU-95, also known as the “Bear,” is a long-range strategic bomber capable of carrying nuclear weapons. The H-6, on the other hand, is a Chinese copy of the Soviet-era TU-16 bomber. Both aircraft are designed for long-range missions and can carry a variety of weapons, including cruise missiles.
This incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between the U.S. and both Russia and China. The Biden administration has been vocal about its concerns regarding Russian and Chinese military activities in the Arctic.
The U.S. has responded by increasing its military presence in the region, including the deployment of additional troops, aircraft, and ships.