The 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron’s three B-52 Stratofortress aircraft, their support equipment, and approximately 300 personnel have completed their rotation as part of the two-month long Bomber Task Force Europe mission series at RAF Fairford on April 15, 2022, returning to Minot Air Force Base, US. Bomber Task Force Europe operations are routinely conducted across the European continent, displaying the Alliance’s unique ability to rapidly field and deploy strategic forces at any time.
“Our bombers provide a unique deterrence capability to the NATO Alliance. The partnerships we have created throughout these rotations better support our ability to employ a strategic force in theater whenever we’re called upon,” said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, NATO Allied Air Command and U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Commander.
Before returning to the US, the three-ship of strategic bombers flew a final mission over Europe focused on integrating with NATO allies, which underscores NATO commitment to deterring adversary aggression towards the Alliance. Throughout their rotation, the B-52 strategic bombers have built critical relationships throughout the Artic, Central and Eastern European regions, which
The B-52 strategic bombers has enhanced the coalition’s ability to respond to incursions threatening freedom of maneuver and navigation. A platform with over 60 years of service, the B-52 integrated with British and Norwegian F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters, the newest and most advanced platforms in theater. The regular rotations of strategic bombers since 2018 has set the stage for future rotations and seamless integration throughout U.S. European Command with NATO Allies and partners.