### Close Call: Russian Su-35 Fighter Jet Encounters American Aircraft Near Alaskan Airspace

In a tense aerial encounter, a Russian Su-35 fighter jet came alarmingly close to an American aircraft during an intercept mission. The incident, which took place on September 23rd in the Alaskan air defense identification zone, was recently highlighted in a video released by NORAD.

As per the footage, the American plane was conducting an intercept of seven Russian aircraft, including a bomber. The highlight of the video, however, was not the bomber but the Russian Su-35's perilous maneuver. The fourth-generation fighter jet buzzed dangerously close to the American plane dispatched for interception, showcasing a high-risk maneuver at extremely high speeds.

Experts note that while Russian aircraft testing American defenses is a common occurrence globally, what stood out was the close proximity maintained by the Su-35. Operating at speeds that can reach up to Mach 2.25, even a minor error in maneuvering could result in catastrophic consequences.

Despite these provocative stunts, comparisons between the aerial capabilities of Russia and the USA reveal a significant disparity. Russia reportedly has around 20 stealth fighters and no stealth bombers, with uncertainties regarding their operational status. In stark contrast, the United States boasts a robust fleet of at least 1,200 stealth fighters and 22 stealth bombers, including the cutting-edge B-21.

Given this substantial edge, defense experts assure that the United States remains well-prepared to handle any aerial confrontations. Thus, while such incidents might momentarily raise eyebrows, they underscore the striking imbalance in air power between the two nations.