B-2 and B-52 bombers joint exercises strengthen allies' interoperability

B-2 and B-52 bombers joint exercises strengthen allies' interoperability

Rare mission to Europe provides allies with opportunity to integrate military tactics.

A temporary deployment of two B-2 and three B-52 strategic bombers to a military base in western England is increasing integration of US and allied forces in Europe while giving more support to allies and partners in the region, US Air Force commanders said.

By the end of June, the multi-role heavy bombers will conduct training flights throughout Europe, providing opportunities for air crews to sharpen skills in several key operational sets and become familiar with airbases and operations in the region.

A B-2 bomber is on display at a media event at RAF Fairford. Lieutenant Ian Hart, an officer in the British Royal Air Force, said joint training missions are important for the region. [Paul Ciocoiu/SETimes]

"This deployment of strategic bombers provides an invaluable opportunity to strengthen and improve interoperability with our allies and partners," Admiral Cecil Haney, commander of the US Strategic Command, said in a statement. "The training and integration of strategic forces demonstrates to our nation's leaders and our allies that we have the right mix of aircraft and expertise to respond to a variety of potential threats and situations."

The high-tech bombers were on display at a June 10th media event at the UK airbase in Fairford, about 150 kilometres from London.

Officers said such exercises are a rare opportunity.

"We are capable of being deployed anywhere in the world so this is a very good opportunity for us to train in this region, to go out and explore this area, get familiarised with the patrol procedures, air traffic control...