Additional Coverage:
US and Canadian fighter jets intercepted Russian aircraft near the Arctic this week. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) confirmed the incident, stating the Russian planes remained in international airspace and were not considered a threat. Canadian and US jets were deployed to monitor the Russian aircraft.
Later, NORAD sent additional fighter jets to Greenland to increase their presence in the Arctic, though this deployment was unrelated to the Russian aircraft. This incident follows a similar event weeks prior where NORAD shadowed Russian warplanes near Alaska.
The Arctic region is becoming a key area of interest for several countries, including Russia, China, and the US. The US has a military base in Greenland, a strategically important territory. Recent discussions about the US acquiring Greenland have been met with resistance from Greenland’s government and residents.
Russia continues to increase its military presence in the Arctic, including new nuclear submarines and hypersonic missile tests. This buildup has raised concerns among US officials about potential threats to North America.
Russia is currently conducting drills in the Arctic, according to reports. A Russian icebreaker also reportedly sustained damage after a collision in the Kara Sea.
While the US has expressed concerns about growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic, both countries maintain their actions are peaceful and cooperative.