During May the U.S. Air Force undertook a series of nonstop training missions to Europe with Boeing B-1B Lancers. Supported by tankers, the aircraft exercised with local air forces in two of Europe’s “hot-spots”—the Baltic and Black Seas—on what are known as Bomber Task Force missions. A key objective of the missions is to familiarize regional air forces with bomber operations to pave the way for any joint operations that might be undertaken in the future. The flights also deliver a clear political message to Russia.
“Bomber Task Force missions to Europe demonstrate commitment to our allies and partners all while providing a clear deterrence message to any adversary,” said General Jeff Harrigian, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa. “The integration of our strategic bomber presence across Europe proves that the U.S., alongside any ally or partner, stands ready to deter, and if needed, can employ these capabilities together.”
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