U.S. military tracks Russian warplanes near Alaska

In recent months, the North American Aerospace Defense Command has reported several instances of Russian military activity near the state of Alaska in the United States. Specifically, multiple Russian warplanes were detected flying in international airspace off the Alaskan coast but did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace. Although the Russian aircraft were in the Air Defense Identification Zone, NORAD clarified that the planes were not viewed as threats to U.S. or Canadian security. The monitoring of this zone is part of a broader national defense strategy aimed at ensuring that any unidentified aircraft are tracked meticulously. Most notably, in December 2024, four Russian military aircraft were reported close to Alaska, and in February 2025, there were additional sightings. These activities come in the context of heightened military readiness in the region, which included the deployment of U.S. soldiers to remote areas in Alaska. This heightened tension coincides with joint military operations conducted by Russia and China. The presence of Russian military forces in the Arctic has raised concerns over the strategic implications for both the U.S. and Canada, which closely monitor their northern borders. The situation escalated in September 2024 when U.S. fighter jets were deployed to shadow Russian aircraft near Alaska, illustrating the significant military presence and surveillance efforts in response to perceived threats. NORAD also shared footage showing the close interactions, noting that some Russian pilots engaged in dangerous flying maneuvers that put other aircraft at risk. These repeated incursions have prompted discussions among defense officials regarding the need to maintain a vigilant posture in the Arctic region. Overall, the series of incidents involving Russian warplanes near Alaska indicates a growing focus on military readiness and the complexities of international relations in the Arctic. The increased visibility of military activities from both Russia and the United States underscores the importance of the region for national security not only for the U.S. and Canada but also on a global scale. As tensions continue, the necessity for communication and diplomatic channels to address these confrontations may play a key role in maintaining regional stability.