US Air Force bombers return to Pacific for first task force mission

The United States Air Force has launched its first Bomber Task Force mission of the year, with B-1B Lancers from South Dakota arriving in the Western Pacific to participate in critical regional operations.

At least two B-1B Lancers from the 34th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, based at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, landed at Andersen Air Force Base on January 15, marking the start of Bomber Task Force 25-1, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

These long-range, heavy bombers are slated to take part in a series of ongoing missions designed to demonstrate the Air Force's capability to "deter, deny and dominate" against adversaries while cooperating with allies and partner forces.

According to the Air Force’s mission description, these training operations are aimed at showcasing the US military’s strategic presence in the region.

A squadron spokeswoman, 2nd Lt. Alejandra Angarita, confirmed the deployment but did not provide additional details by the time of publication. However, the bombers' arrival was promptly followed by significant air manoeuvres. 

One B-1B Lancer completed an aerial refuelling mission over the South China Sea with a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 909th Air Refuelling Squadron, based at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. Additionally, a pair of Lancers participated in an airpower demonstration over the Sea of Japan, escorted by South Korean F-15K Slam Eagles and Japan Air Self-Defense Force Mitsubishi F-2 fighters. This marked the first overflight of the new year involving US allies.

The U.S. routinely deploys various bombers, including B-1Bs, B-52 Stratofortresses, and B-2 Spirits, to the Pacific and other regions in support of Bomber Task Force missions. These operations, which began in January 2018, have continued regularly since 2020. The B-21 Raider, currently under development by Northrop Grumman, is expected to replace the B-2 Spirit in future deployments.

The last bomber task force mission based out of Guam, Bomber Task Force 24-6, concluded on June 25, 2024, with B-1Bs from the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron at Ellsworth participating. The mission included cooperation with NATO and other global partners, highlighting the Air Force's commitment to maintaining readiness and strategic influence.

By Aghakazim Guliyev