The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) detected and tracked two Russian military aircraft operating in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone earlier this month, according to the organisation.
The aircraft, identified as Tu-142 maritime patrol platforms, were monitored on 4 March 2026 after entering the Alaskan ADIZ, prompting a coordinated response involving U.S. and Canadian forces. NORAD deployed a mix of assets including F-35 and F-22 fighter aircraft, supported by KC-135 tankers, an E-3 airborne warning and control aircraft, Canadian CF-18 fighters and a CC-150 tanker.
The aircraft were intercepted and identified while remaining in international airspace, with NORAD stating that they did not enter sovereign U.S. or Canadian airspace. The command noted that such activity occurs regularly and is not considered a threat.
NORAD said the response was part of its standard mission to detect, track and monitor aircraft approaching North America, using a layered system that includes satellites, ground-based radar and airborne assets. The ADIZ extends beyond national airspace and is used to provide early warning and identification of approaching aircraft.
The command added that it remains prepared to respond to a range of aerial activity as part of its role in defending North American airspace.
Probably trying to stay as far away from Ukraine as possible 😀
Francis Gary Powers………just saying.