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Mapped: US Sends 'Nuke Sniffer' Plane to Russia's Pacific Coast

Mapped: US Sends 'Nuke Sniffer' Plane to Russia's Pacific Coast

Summary

The U.S. sent a specialized aircraft, called the "Nuke Sniffer," to fly near Russia's Pacific coast. This plane detects nuclear activities and was deployed from Japan following recent directives related to nuclear testing by both the U.S. and Russia.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. deployed a military plane called WC-135R "Nuke Sniffer" near Russia's Pacific coast.
  • This plane can collect evidence of nuclear activities, like particles and gases.
  • The "Nuke Sniffer" supports the 1963 Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which prohibits certain types of nuclear tests.
  • Russia and the U.S. both signed the 1996 Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty banning nuclear explosions.
  • Flight data showed the WC-135R took off from Japan's Kadena Air Base and flew over parts of Japan towards Russia.
  • An aerial tanker supported the flight to extend its time in the air.
  • The U.S. operates three WC-135R planes for nuclear sampling missions, replacing an older fleet.
  • These missions are part of routine monitoring in various regions globally to support treaties prohibiting nuclear tests.

Source Information