For the first time, Russian and Chinese bombers ‘flexed muscles’ near the US on July 24. This unusual event involved bombers from both nations approaching US territory at the same time, underscoring the growing partnership between Russia and China.
NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) reported that two Russian TU-95 Bears and two Chinese H-6 strategic bombers entered the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), an area of international airspace near North America. The bombers were accompanied by Russian Su-35S and Su-30SM fighters.
This incident marked the first time Russian and Chinese military aircraft jointly entered the Alaska ADIZ. It was also the debut appearance of Chinese H-6 bombers in the region.
According to a US defense official, the intercept operation involved American F-16s and F-35s alongside Canadian CF-18s and support aircraft.
NORAD said, “The Russian and PRC aircraft remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace.”
It added, “This Russian and PRC activity in the Alaska ADIZ is not seen as a threat, and NORAD will continue to monitor competitor activity near North America and meet presence with presence.”
Despite the F-35 and F-16 being excellent warplanes, they are not known for their interception prowess. Experts say the F-22 and F-15 are the US’s top air superiority fighters, and they can challenge a powerful bomber pack escorted by mighty Su-35 fighters.
The Alaska ADIZ, extending 150 miles from the U.S. coastline, serves as a buffer zone where the US requires aircraft to identify themselves.
While it is not uncommon for Russian bombers to be intercepted in this zone, as evidenced by incidents in February and March, the joint Russian-Chinese flight on July 24 was unprecedented. It highlighted the growing military partnership between Beijing and Moscow.
Earlier this week, US Deputy Secretary of Defense, Kathleen Hicks, noted China’s expanding military interest in the Arctic and its cooperation with Russia as the Pentagon presented its latest Arctic Strategy.
