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US Deploys Nuclear Bombers Near Ukrainian Border

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Olga_gordiienko
Olga Gordiienko
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US Deploys Nuclear Bombers Near Ukrainian Border
A KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, refuels a B-52H Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La. (Source: US Air Forces)

The United States has deployed two B-52 Stratofortress intercontinental strategic bombers to the Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Force Base in Romania, bordering with Ukraine. This transfer was announced by the US Air Force in Europe.

The American aircraft will operate as part of the 20th Expeditionary Bombing Squadron of the US Air Force and will begin integrating with NATO forces.

During a flight in international airspace over the Barents Sea, the B-52s were intercepted by two Russian aircraft at around 8 a.m. Central European Time, on July 21. Despite the interception, the US aircraft maintained their course and continued their scheduled flight plan without incident. The bombers completed their pre-planned mission, which included coordination with NATO fighter aircraft, before landing at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base.

A B-52H Stratofortress from the 20th Bomb Squadron, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., makes its initial landing at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, in support of Bomber Task Force Deployment 24-4, July 21, 2024. (Source: US Air Forces)
A B-52H Stratofortress from the 20th Bomb Squadron, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., makes its initial landing at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, in support of Bomber Task Force Deployment 24-4, July 21, 2024. (Source: US Air Forces)

“In today’s global environment, it is vital that we be postured to deliver a range of sustainable capability from great distances. This iteration of Bomber Task Force offers an excellent opportunity to refine our agile combat employment tactics, techniques, and procedures,” according to General James Hecker, USAFE-AFAFRICA commander. “Through collaborative efforts with our Allies, the U.S. enables our forces to combat current and future threats.”

While stationed in Romania, the B-52s will integrate with NATO Allies and international partners to enhance capabilities and uphold security commitments across the US European Command area of responsibility.

“The US is dedicated to work alongside our NATO Allies and partners along the Eastern Flank to ensure we have the combined skills and coordination capabilities necessary to maintain regional safety, security, and stability,” said Hecker.

According to The Barents Observer, a Norwegian newspaper, these strategic bombers conducted a training flight over the Finland-Russia border before heading to Romania.

These regular and routine deployments of US strategic bombers underscore the readiness and commitment of the US and NATO to integrate with host-nation allies and partners, deter threats, and defend the Alliance.

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