Amid increasing Russian military activity near American shores, the U.S. military has deployed 130 soldiers and mobile rocket launchers to an island in Alaska’s Aleutian chain. This deployment follows the approach of Russian planes and naval vessels, including submarines, as part of joint military drills between Russia and China.
Eight Russian planes and four naval ships came close to Alaska last week, though none violated U.S. airspace. Major General Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesperson, noted that while such actions are concerning, the U.S. is monitoring the situation and prepared to respond if needed. “It’s something we obviously closely monitor,” Ryder assured, urging calm.
Russian state media confirmed that over 15 warships have been involved in missile exercises in the area. Tensions have been escalating, particularly after a July incident where U.S. and Canadian fighter jets intercepted Russian and Chinese bombers near Alaskan airspace. The latest movements reflect a continued buildup of military forces in the region.
Major General Joseph Hilbert, the commander of the 11th Airborne, emphasized that U.S. military readiness in the area is critical to national defense. “Deploying combat-credible forces to remote locations is essential to protecting the nation and supporting our allies,” he said.
The number of Russian aircraft incursions into Alaskan airspace has increased significantly. While the annual average used to be six or seven, there were 26 reported incidents in 2023, with 25 already recorded this year.
Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) has suggested reopening the Adak Naval base, which closed in 1997, to strengthen U.S. defenses in the face of growing threats from Russia and China in the region.
