NORAD Detects, Tracks Russian Military Aircraft Flying Near Alaska NORAD detected and tracked Russian military aircraft, including bombers and fighter jets, operating within the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone. In response, NORAD launched U.S. fighter jets and support aircraft to intercept and escort the Russian planes. An Air Defense Identification Zone is an area of international airspace where countries monitor aircraft for national security purposes.

• NORAD detected Russian military aircraft in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone.
• The detected aircraft included two Tu-95 strategic bombers, two Su-35 fighter jets, and one Beriev A-50 surveillance aircraft.
• NORAD responded by launching F-16s, F-35s, an E-3, and KC-135s to intercept and escort the Russian planes.
• The Russian aircraft were in international airspace.
• An Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) is defined as international airspace where a country monitors aircraft for national security.