Official statements from the US government or news agencies

NORAD Intercepts Russian and Chinese Bombers in Joint Patrol Near Alaska for First Time

Jul 25, 2024, 12:58 AM

On July 24, 2024, the 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). The interception was conducted by US F-16s, F-35s, and Canadian CF-18s. This marks the first time Russian and Chinese military aircraft have entered the ADIZ simultaneously. The aircraft, which were conducting a joint patrol, remained in international airspace near the Aleutian Island Chain and did not pose an immediate threat. The event occurred ahead of President Biden's Oval Office address.