Russian And Chinese Bombers Have Been Spotted Near Alaska For The Very First Time

On Wednesday, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) made history by intercepting two Chinese and two Russian bombers that were operating close to Alaska. This is the first time Chinese military aircraft have been seen operating close to North America.

Within the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), two Russian TU-95 and two Chinese PRC H-6 military aircraft were found, tracked, and intercepted by NORAD, a binational US-Canadian agency that oversees aerospace warning and control for North America. The aircraft didn’t violate American or Canadian sovereign airspace; instead, they stayed in international airspace despite their close proximity.

The command emphasized that the incident was not viewed as a direct threat but reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and responding to such activities near North America with a stance of “presence with presence.”

Historically, Russian aircraft have frequently been intercepted in this region, but the inclusion of Chinese bombers signifies a notable shift. Experts suggest this move by China aims to project its expanding military power and highlight its growing ties with Moscow. It is speculated that the Chinese aircraft may have utilized a Russian military airport for operations in the area.

The commander of US Northern Command (NORTHCOM) and NORAD, General Gregory Guillot of the US Air Force, had issued a warning earlier this year about possible Chinese aircraft activities close to US air defense zones. His worries seem to be supported by this recent activity, which is concerning for the US and its allies given the geopolitical environment created by Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The incident takes place at the same time as the US Defense Department releases its 2024 Arctic Strategy, which discusses environmental shifts and how they affect US security. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks underlined the strategic significance of the Arctic to US defense and national sovereignty. Concerns over China’s expanding influence and collaboration with Russia in the Arctic region were also expressed by her.

Potential threats are identified and tracked by NORAD’s layered defense network, which consists of fighter aircraft, ground-based and aerial radars, and satellites. The command is still vital to preserving the safety and security of North American airspace.