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A senior US official has downplayed the presence of Russian and Chinese strategic bombers near Alaska. The flight, labeled as a joint patrol between Russia and China, was intended to strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.
What’s the deal: According to NORAD, two Russian TU-95 bombers and two Chinese H-6 bombers entered the US Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) off the coast of Alaska. Russia and China described the flight as a joint patrol over the Chukchi and Bering seas, intended to bolster military cooperation between the two nations. This marks the first time China and Russia have conducted such a joint air patrol in this region.
What the US is saying: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted that the aircraft came within “200 miles of our coast.” He downplayed concerns about China and Russia’s intentions, stating, “While the Russians and Chinese may be sending a message, let me clarify the message we’re sending: We are prepared. We are always prepared. We will defend this nation. If there is any challenge or threat to the United States, our troops will be ready and will respond appropriately.”
Statement from Russia: In a statement, Russia’s Ministry of Defense said,” “During the flight, Russian and Chinese crews worked out issues of interaction at all stages of air patrol in the new area of joint operations. Fighter air cover was provided by Su-30SM and Su-35S aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces. During the execution of their missions, aircraft from both countries operated strictly in accordance with the provisions of international law. There were no violations of the airspace of foreign states. Upon completion of the joint air patrol, all involved aircraft returned to their home airfields. The event was held as part of the implementation of the military cooperation plan for 2024 and is not directed against third countries.”
Digging Deeper: The increasing military cooperation between Russia and China, as well as with nations like Iran and North Korea, has been a persistent concern for the United States and its Western allies. Recently, the deepening ties between Russia and North Korea have prompted South Korean officials to warn that they might start supplying lethal aid to Ukraine. This would mark a significant shift, as South Korea has only provided non-lethal aid so far.
