US and Canada scramble fighter jets over Russian aircraft near Alaska
Photo: Russian Tu-142 bomber (Getty Images)
Two Russian Tu-142 bombers were detected in Alaska's air defense identification zone. In response, the United States and Canada deployed their aircraft to the region, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).
According to NORAD, Tu-142 aircraft are designed for maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.
The following aircraft were scrambled to intercept the Russian planes:
- 2 US Air Force F-35 fighters;
- 2 F-22s;
- 4 KC-135 refueling aircraft;
- An AWACS E-3 surveillance aircraft;
- 2 Canadian CF-18s;
- A CC-150 refueling aircraft.
NORAD emphasizes that the Russian aircraft did not violate the airspace of the United States or Canada.
According to the agency, such actions by Russia in the air defense identification zones near Alaska and Canada occur regularly and are not considered direct threats.
The exact location of the aircraft is not disclosed.
Tu-142
The Tu-142 is a Russian strategic bomber and maritime patrol aircraft developed during the Soviet era. It is designed for reconnaissance, searching for submarines, and striking enemy surface ships at long ranges.
The aircraft can carry more than 11 tons of various weapons, including anti-ship and anti-submarine missiles, torpedoes, and depth charges.
The Tu-142 was designed specifically to detect and destroy American nuclear submarines, making it a key element of the USSR's naval strategy during the Cold War.
