Russia seeks to carry out surveillance flights over US

Russia announced on Tuesday that it will request to carry out flights above US territory using intelligence collection planes fitted with highly advanced digital cameras and sensors capable of detecting radioactive and other materials. The mutual right to carry out flights by unarmed intelligence aircraft is included in the Open Skies Treaty between NATO and Russia that is aimed at proving that the two sides are honoring their arms control agreements. Western intelligence organizations warn that the Russian flights will become a main part of Russia's plans to collect intelligence. Even if Washington approves the flights,  they will occur in the summer and require advance notice of 120 days.