US, Canada, Intercept 6 Russian Planes, 2 Bombers Over Their Air Defense Identification Zone

Two U.S. Air Force jets intercepted six Russian planes near Alaska, while Canada's air force intercepted two bombers that had almost reached its airspace, reports said, citing North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD. U.S. officials reportedly believe the incidents were connected to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko’s visit to the region.

Jeff Davis, a spokesperson for NORAD, said that the Russian planes reportedly flew within about 55 nautical miles off Alaska and about 40 nautical miles off the Canadian coastline, CNN reported, adding that after flying in a loop they returned to Russia.

Two Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptors intercepted two Ilyushin Il-78 refueling tankers, Mikoyan MiG-31 fighter jets and two Russian Bear long-range bombers. Two Canadian McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet jets intercepted two Russian Bear long-range bombers in the Beaufort Sea, north of Alaska, CNN reported, citing the NORAD statement.

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