NORAD launched two F-16s and one KC-135 tanker to positively identify and monitor the aircraft in the Alaskan ADIZ. The command confirmed that such Russian activity occurs regularly and is not considered a threat.
An ADIZ begins where sovereign airspace ends and is a defined stretch of international airspace requiring the ready identification of all aircraft in the interest of national security. NORAD explained that it employs a layered defence network of satellites, ground-based and airborne radars and fighter aircraft to detect and track aircraft and inform appropriate actions.
“NORAD remains ready to employ a number of response options in defense of North America,” the command stated. The organisation stressed that it maintains the capability to act swiftly to ensure regional security.
