Russian aircraft flies freely over U.S.

(CNN) -- For the first time ever, a Russian military airplane has flown freely over the United States.

As part of an "Open Skies" treaty between Moscow and Washington, the flight was aimed at increasing trust and cooperation between the former Cold War rivals.

The Russian cargo plane -- fitted with cameras and scanners -- flew several unrestricted observation flights over the U.S. A U.S. escort plane traveled behind the Russian aircraft.

In about two weeks, Russia will return the favor, letting a U.S. plane fly unrestricted over Russia.

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