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B-52s integrate with NATO allies over Baltic region

A B-52H Stratofortress, assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, takes off from Morón Air Base, Spain, May 9, 2021, in support of strategic Bomber Task Force operations across Europe. Strategic bomber missions routinely operate across the globe and are flexible and agile to respond to the changes in the operational environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2d Lieutenant Aileen Lauer)

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Photo by: 2nd Lt. Aileen Lauer 

U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, completed a mission with NATO allies in the international airspace over the Baltic region on May 19, 2021.

The mission included low-flies over the capital cities of Riga, Lativa, and Vilnius, Lithuania. Danish and Polish fighter aircraft escorted the bombers through the Baltic airspace.

Given the inherent speed, flexibility and range of strategic bombers, Bomber Task Force missions highlight U.S. capabilities to work closely with our allies and partners in any environment.

“The B-52s are already getting after it and accomplishing vital training with our allies,” said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa commander. “This level of integration makes our force more agile and capable.”

Bomber Task Force missions demonstrate U.S. commitment to the collective defense of NATO and contribute to stability in the European theater. Our ability to quickly respond and assure allies and partners rests upon the fact that we are here, in Europe, forward and ready.

Continuing coverage of this deployment will be available on this website and on the DVIDS hub at: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/bombertaskforceeurope.