Summary
On September 23, 2024, a Russian Su-35 fighter jet executed a dangerously close maneuver near a U.S. F-16 during an intercept operation in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). The incident was captured on video, illustrating the risky behavior of the Russian aircraft as it flew between the F-16 and a Russian Tu-95 bomber, prompting concerns from U.S. military officials.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) monitored the situation as multiple Russian aircraft operated in international airspace. While such encounters are not uncommon, the specific actions of the Su-35 during this incident were deemed “unsafe” and “unprofessional” by General Gregory Guillot, commander of NORAD. He emphasized that such conduct endangers all involved and is not representative of a professional air force. The U.S. military has noted an increase in risky maneuvers by Russian and Chinese aircraft in recent years, raising concerns about air safety and military conduct in contested airspaces.
Details of the Incident
- Date and Location: The encounter took place on September 23, 2024, in the Alaskan ADIZ.
- Aircraft Involved: A Russian Su-35 and a U.S. F-16, alongside a Russian Tu-95 bomber.
- Actions Taken: The Su-35 flew dangerously close to the F-16, prompting the U.S. pilot to alter their flight path to avoid a potential collision.
Context of Military Interactions
NORAD regularly tracks and intercepts foreign military aircraft operating near U.S. airspace. While most interactions are routine and conducted safely, incidents like this highlight the risks associated with military flights in close proximity. The U.S. has documented a rise in unsafe actions by foreign military aircraft, particularly from Russia and China, over the past few years, which has raised alarms about the potential for miscalculations or accidents in the air.
Official Reactions
General Guillot’s comments reflect ongoing concerns within the U.S. military regarding the professionalism and safety of foreign military operations. The incident follows a pattern of increasing military tensions, particularly in regions where U.S. and Russian forces operate in close quarters.
Video shows Russian fighter jet in 'unsafe' maneuver just feet from US Air Force F-16
Oct. 1 / Usa Today / Offers a clear account of the incident, underscoring the U.S. military's concerns. The concise explanation of the ADIZ adds depth, while quoting General Guillot enhances authority and credibility in the narrative. “ The U.S. military released video of an extremely close encounter between a U.S. Air Force jet and Russian military aircraft in the skies near Alaska on...
Video shows Russian fighter jet in 'unsafe' maneuver just feet from US Air Force F-16
Oct. 1 / Usa Today / Reiterates key details of the encounter, maintaining clarity and focus. However, it lacks unique insights compared to other sources, making it feel somewhat redundant in the context of the overall coverage. “ The U.S. military released video of an extremely close encounter between a U.S. Air Force jet and Russian military aircraft in the skies near Alaska on...
Video Shows Russian Warplane Buzzing American Jet Near US Coast
Oct. 1 / Newsweek / Highlights the dramatic footage of the Russian Su-35's risky maneuver, emphasizing NORAD's response. It effectively contextualizes the incident within ongoing military tensions, providing insightful historical parallels. “ The United States Department of Defense on Monday released a video showing a Russian fighter jet conducting a dangerous maneuver directed at an American...
Video captures a Russian fighter jet dangerously ripping past a US F-16 during an intercept
Sep. 30 / Business Insider / Captures the reckless behavior of the Su-35 vividly, presenting a well-rounded view of NORAD's operations. The reference to past incidents effectively frames the current situation, though the length may feel excessive for some readers. “ A Russian Su-35 aircraft flew dangerously close to a US F-16, per NORAD. The incident occurred during an intercept near Alaska. Video footage and photos...