NORAD detected and tracked Russian aircraft operating in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), which is international airspace adjacent to U.S. and Canadian sovereign airspace. In response, U.S. fighter jets, including F-16s and KC-135 tankers, were scrambled to intercept and identify the aircraft. The Russian activity involved two Tu-95 strategic bombers and two Su-35 fighter jets, which remained in international airspace and did not enter U.S. or Canadian sovereign airspace. NORAD stated this activity is common and not considered a threat but is viewed as testing the preparedness of U.S. and NATO forces. Similar incidents have occurred recently, with Russian aircraft repeatedly operating near Alaska and crossing into NATO countries' airspace, such as Estonia and Poland, prompting NATO to warn Russia against escalating tensions. The Russian aircraft's presence coincides with ongoing geopolitical tensions, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and increased military activity in Europe. NORAD also noted recent Russian incursions into the airspaces of Estonia and Poland, with NATO allies responding to these provocations. The incidents highlight ongoing concerns over Russian military operations in international airspace and the strategic responses by U.S. and allied forces.