In this Monday, March 9, 2020, file photo released by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a Russian Tu-142 maritime reconnaissance aircraft, top right, is intercepted near the Alaska coastline. U.S. and Canadian aircraft intercepted and escorted two Russian jets that flew over the Beaufort Sea near the Alaska coastline, military officials said Tuesday. The Russian Tu-142 maritime reconnaissance aircraft were escorted by F-22 and CF-18 planes, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said in a release. The Russian jets never left international airspace during the duration of the four-hour flight on Monday, but did come within 50 miles of the Alaska coast. (North American Aerospace Defense Command via AP)
By Lauren Meier – The Washington Times – Friday, May 22, 2020