Overview

• NORAD said two Tu-95 bombers escorted by Su-35 fighters entered the Alaska ADIZ on Wednesday, prompting launches of an E-3, F-16s and KC-135 tankers to identify and intercept the aircraft, which stayed in international airspace.
• The command reported it was the third such encounter in about a month and the ninth this year near Alaska.
• Romania’s supreme defense council authorized quicker shoot-down decisions for violating drones or military aircraft by delegating authority to field commanders in defined cases.
• German leaders condemned recent incursions as part of a broader pattern, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledging measures for effective deterrence and Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt seeking legal updates and funding to bolster counter‑drone defenses.
• After an emergency session this week NATO vowed to use all necessary means to counter threats, while President Donald Trump said he would support downing jets that violate alliance airspace and Secretary General Mark Rutte voiced agreement.