US deploys another strategic bomber to Europe for joint training exercises

US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers have arrived in Europe as part of a standard Bomber Task Force-Europe rotation, highlighting the US ongoing dedication to regional security and NATO's collective defense efforts. 

During their deployment, the bombers will engage in various exercises and training flights with Allied air forces, enhancing teamwork and strengthening shared capabilities, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

“Bomber Task Force missions reinforce our ability to rapidly project combat power, demonstrating US lethality and readiness in a dynamic security environment,” said Maj. Gen. Joseph Campo, US Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Director of Operations, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration. “Training alongside our Allies and partners ensures seamless integration, enhancing our collective deterrence and warfighting capability across Europe and Africa.”  

During their transit to Europe, the US aircraft carried out a routine mission with France, Sweden, and Finland. While stationed in Europe, the bombers will further collaborate with NATO Allies and partners, engaging in joint training exercises aimed at improving interoperability and readiness across the region.

This cooperation emphasizes the significance of dynamic force employment, positioning US forces strategically to deter aggression while adapting to the changing security landscape. The missions will also showcase the bombers’ capability to operate from various forward locations, highlighting EUCOM’s strategy of agility and flexible force deployment.  

“Training with NATO allies strengthens our ability to operate as one team,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Cangealose, commander 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron. “These missions reinforce our partnerships and prepare us to deliver decisive capabilities whenever and wherever they’re needed.”

The B-52H Stratofortress is a long-range, heavy bomber that can perform a variety of missions. The bomber is capable of flying at high subsonic speeds at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet (15,166.6 meters). It can carry nuclear or precision guided conventional ordnance with worldwide precision navigation capability. Features In a conventional conflict, the B-52 can perform strategic attack, close-air support, air interdiction, offensive counter-air and maritime operations.

During Desert Storm, B-52s delivered 40 percent of all the weapons dropped by coalition forces. It is highly effective when used for ocean surveillance and can assist the US Navy in anti-ship and mine-laying operations. In two hours, two B-52s can monitor 140,000 square miles (364,000 square kilometers) of ocean surface. 

All B-52s can be equipped with two electro-optical viewing sensors, a forward-looking infrared and advanced targeting pods to augment targeting, battle assessment and flight safety, further improving its combat ability. Pilots wear night vision goggles, or NVGs, to enhance their vision during night operations.

Night vision goggles provide greater safety during night operations by increasing the pilot's ability to visually clear terrain, increasing the peacetime and combat situational awareness of the aircrew and improving their ability to visually acquire other aircraft.

By Naila Huseynova