The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) on Monday released photos documenting the interception of Russian aircraft that entered Alaska’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
According to the report, a strategic Tu-95 bomber, escorted by Su-35 fighters, was detected by NORAD’s monitoring system as it approached the region. In response, United States Air Force F-16 fighters on alert were scrambled to carry out the interception.
Joint force in the operation
The operation involved an E-3 Sentry (AWACS) airborne early warning aircraft, four F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters, and four KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft. The U.S. aircraft approached the Russians in a controlled manner, adhering to international interception standards.
Photographic records
As is customary, U.S. military personnel released images of the maneuver. The photos were taken under a sunrise-lit sky, resulting in striking records of the aircraft encounter.
Source and images: U.S. Department of Defense. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
