The North American Aerospace Defense Command has announced that F-22 fighter aircraft intercepted two Russian strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons late Monday evening.
The statement noted that U.S. Air Force F-22 fighters, supported by E-3 airborne warning and control system and KC-135 refueler aircraft, intercepted two Russian Tu-95 bombers escorted by two Su-35 fighter aircraft.
NORAD also positively identified a Russian A-50 supporting the intercepted aircraft which loitered within the ADIZ for approx 1.5 hrs and came within 30nm of Alaskan shores, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said.
All Russian aircraft remained in int’l airspace and at no time entered the United States or Canadian sovereign airspace.
“NORAD forces remain on alert 24/7/365 to respond to potential threats to Canada and the United States. The agility and readiness of our personnel ensures we are successful in addressing potential aerospace threats with the appropriate response at the right time” Air Force General Glen VanHerck, NORAD’s commander, said in a statement.
