The United States has scrambled F-16 fighter jets to intercept four Russian military aircraft near Alaska on Wednesday, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). The action, part of routine air defense operations, underscores the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Russia following recent military buildups in the region.
The intercepted aircraft, identified as Tu-95MS long-range bombers, were reported to be operating in international airspace near the Aleutian Islands. While the exact purpose of their flight remains undisclosed, the U.S. military has emphasized its commitment to maintaining airspace sovereignty and deterring potential aggression.
NORAD officials stated that the intercepts were conducted in accordance with established protocols to ensure safety and avoid any unintended escalation. However, the incident has sparked renewed discussions among U.S. defense officials about the need for increased surveillance and readiness in the Arctic and Pacific regions, where Russian military activity has been on the rise.