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Every year, as Christmas approaches, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) undertakes a unique mission: tracking Santa Claus. This tradition has been in place for over 65 years, and involves both the United States and Canadian militaries working together to monitor Santa's journey from the North Pole.
NORAD uses its advanced tracking technology, including radars, satellites, and fighter jets like F-16s, F-15s, F-22s, and CF-18s to ensure Santa's safe passage through North American airspace. Despite his high-speed sleigh being faster than any fighter jet, NORAD states that "Santa actually slows down for us to escort him," allowing friendly pilots to greet him with a wing tip and a wave.
The tradition of tracking Santa began by accident in 1955 when a child mistakenly called the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) Operations Center instead of Santa. The officer on duty assured the child he was indeed speaking with Santa. This led to more calls and eventually became an annual event when NORAD was established in 1958.
