US jets escort Russian military aircraft out of Alaska’s air defence zone
Al Jazeera
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States dispatched fighter jets to escort Russian military aircraft operating near Alaska's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). The Russian planes, including Tu-95s, Su-35s, and an A-50, were tracked by NORAD, which responded with F-16s, F-35s, an E-3, and four KC-135s. Despite the presence of these aircraft in international airspace, they did not enter sovereign airspace and were not deemed a threat.
This incident highlights the routine nature of Russian military activity near Alaska's ADIZ, which NORAD describes as non-threatening. Unlike sovereign airspace, ADIZs are unilateral declarations by countries like the US, China, India, and Japan, with no international recognition or oversight. Such zones require foreign aircraft to identify themselves upon entry.
The event reflects broader concerns over increasing Russian military cooperation with other nations, such as China, which was evident in a July 2024 incident involving joint flights of Russian and Chinese bombers near Alaska. This marks an escalation in their military collaboration, raising tensions among US allies and prompting questions about regional stability.
This situation underscores the complexities of international airspace management and the delicate balance between national security and diplomatic relations. As global powers continue to assert themselves through military exercises and cooperation, the implications for international security and geopolitics remain significant.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/20/2026