Each formation consisted of two Tu-95MS strategic bombers accompanied by two Su-35S fighter jets. The Russian aircraft remained in international airspace and did not enter US or Canadian sovereign territory.
A photograph taken during the interception on 19 February shows a Tu-95MS bomber with the tail number RF-94189. This aircraft is known for participating in a joint patrol with Chinese H-6 bombers over the Pacific in November 2023.
The Tu-95MS bombers are assigned to the 326th Heavy Bomber Aviation Division, based at Ukrainka Air Base in Russia’s Amur region. The Su-35S fighter jets, identified as belonging to the 22nd Fighter Aviation Regiment, were armed with air-to-air missiles.
One of the escorting Su-35S aircraft featured a grey-blue camouflage pattern, while the other was painted in a darker scheme often referred to as “aubergine.” The lighter-coloured jet bore the tail number RF-95493, confirming its origin from Centralnaya Uglovaya Air Base.
NORAD emphasised that the interceptions were carried out safely and professionally, with no incidents reported. The US and Canadian defence authorities continue to monitor Russian air activity in the region as part of routine operations.
