U.S. F-16 In Aggressor Paint Scheme Intercepts Russian Navy Il-38 In The Alaska ADIZ | Aviation

As happened in May 2024, F-16 in Russian-inspired camouflage color scheme recently intercepted Russian aircraft off Alaska.

Earlier this month, Russian Navy Il-38 and Il-38N “Dolphin” (NATO codename “May”) Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Maritime Patrol Aircraft were intercepted by U.S. F-16s under NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense) command over international airspace inside the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

These aircraft, part of Russia’s maritime reconnaissance force, play a critical role in patrolling seas and detecting underwater threats. The Il-38N is a modernized version of the older Il-38, primarily designed for ASW and equipped with advanced detection systems. The Il-38N incorporates state-of-the-art technology, notably the Leninets Novella-P-39, and an advanced sensor suite, which includes a multi-functional radar capable of detecting aerial and surface targets, along with a highly sensitive radio sonobuoy system for underwater monitoring. The aircraft also features a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) for pinpointing underwater objects like submarines within a 900-meter range. Additionally, an Electro-Optical (EO) turret with a TV, infrared imaging, laser rangefinding, and automated target tracking further enhances its operational efficiency. Electronic Support Measures (ESM) sensors installed in a circular box fairing improve its…