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Bomber Task Force Europe: Strategic bombers soar through NATO's Eastern Flank, complete successful 2-month rotation

A B-52H Stratofortress from the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron at RAF Fairford, England, is escorted by two Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripens on Feb. 18, 2022. The Swedish fighters met with the B-52 during a sortie over Sweden to practice establishing communications between the aircrafts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright)

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Photo by: Airman 1st Class Zachary Wright 

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 today, returning to Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.

Before returning to North Dakota, the three-ship of strategic bombers flew a final mission over Europe focused on integrating with NATO allies, which underscores U.S. and NATO commitment to deterring adversary aggression toward the Alliance.

Bomber Task Force Europe operations are routinely conducted across the European continent, showcasing the Air Force's unique ability to rapidly field and deploy strategic forces at any time as part of the Agile Combat Employment concept.

“Our bombers provide a unique deterrence capability to the NATO Alliance,” said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa commander. “The partnerships we have created throughout these rotations better support our ability to employ a strategic force in theater whenever we’re called upon.”

Throughout their rotation, the B-52 strategic bombers have built critical relationships throughout the Artic, Central and Eastern European regions, which 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.

Coverage of U.S. European Command’s BTF deployments are available on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service at: www.dvidshub.net/feature/bombertaskforceeurope.

For media interested in engagement opportunities, please contact USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs as +49 06371-47-6558 or email usafepao.pao@us.af.mil or usafepa.pastaffdutyofficer@us.af.mil.