Canadian jets scrambled to fend off Russian bombers in Arctic

Russian planes flew within 55 km of Canadian territory as Stephen Harper continues his Arctic visit

Two Russian planes that were detected close to Canadian air space yesterday are “a real cause for concern” according to Stephen Harper. The bombers were intercepted by Canadian jets and turned around without further drama, but because the prime minister is currently on a high-profile visit to the region and Canadian, U.S. and Danish forces are engaged in Arctic military exercises this week, the timing of the incident is considered provocative. Russia has increased patrol flights in the Arctic in recent years as several countries vie to secure their claims to northern territory. In July, Canadian jets were scrambled to intercept Russian planes flying off the east coast.