Bomber Task Force deployments are strategic air missions overseen by Air Force Global Strike Command - Air Forces Strategic-Air.
Bomber Task Force missions involve the regular and routine deployment of AFGSC’s bomber forces worldwide that are designed to allow the Department of the Air Force to support National Defense Strategy objectives. BTF missions demonstrate that the United States is committed to working alongside its Allies, Partners, and the Joint Force in strengthening deterrence and promoting peace and stability by providing safe, secure, and lethal combat-ready forces for nuclear and conventional global strike, anytime and anywhere.
The three types of bomber aircraft comprising AFGSC’s fleet are the B-52 Stratofortress, the B-1 Lancer, and the B-2 Spirit; with plans for the B-21 Raider to first supplement, and then eventually replace, the B-2 beginning in the mid-2020s. While all three bombers are capable of delivering conventional payloads, only the B-52 Stratofortress and the B-2 Spirit are nuclear-capable.
While the missions for each BTF may vary, the overall goal remains the same:
Assure allies and deter adversaries.
History
Before the BTF mission was created, the DAF utilized the Continuous Bomber Presence construct in allied and partner nations. The CBP strategy had been in place since 2004 and included the rotation of heavy bombers through the Western Pacific Island of Guam, undertaking the Bomber Assurance and Deterrence mission in 2014, until it was discontinued in 2018. In its place, the BTF mission was implemented with the intent to develop Dynamic Force Employment for the DAF.
The development of the BTF mission has allowed the Department of Defense to demonstrate its ability to command and control bomber forces anywhere in the world while increasing its agility. The 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron assumed the first BTF mission in January 2018. During that mission, four B-52s were deployed to RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, from Minot AFB, N.D. In the same year, additional BTFs rolled out, integrating the USAF bomber forces with allied nations and partners.
As allied and partnering nations continue to look to the United States for mutual cooperation, the U.S. conveys its commitment to security and rules-based order in accordance with international law. BTF missions play a huge role in demonstrating that commitment, while also advancing overall readiness for itself, Allies, Partners, and Joint Forces. Recent missions display the effectiveness of the DAF's efforts as well as the importance of AFGSC's BTF mission.
The latest news regarding AFGSC's Bomber Task Force missions can be found here.
2024 Mission Highlights
December 2024 - B-52s depart UK following successful Bomber Task Force deployment: Four U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft departed Royal Air Force Fairford, England, Dec. 13 following a successful Bomber Task Force deployment. During their time in Europe, this recent deployed B-52 unit conducted a series of training missions with other U.S. Air Force assets in the region and multiple countries, including Finland, Sweden, Lithuania, Italy, Norway, the U.K., the Czech Republic, and Morocco. The deployment marked a historic milestone as U.S. bombers executed the first-ever simulated live weapons drop in Finland, showcasing enhanced interoperability with a new NATO Ally. Additionally, the bombers integrated with Lithuanian Joint Terminal Attack Controllers, strengthening close-air support readiness across the Baltic region.
“Working alongside our Allies and partners highlights the strength of collaboration. Every mission was a testament to the power of teamwork, shared expertise, and a unified commitment to security,” said Capt. Aaron Gurley, USAFE-AFAFRICA Bomber Task Force mission planner. “Together, we built solutions that no single nation could achieve alone, proving that our collective strength truly defines the success of every operation.”
December 2024 - BTF 25-1 participates in trilateral planning conference: Airmen from the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, U.S. Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa and the 501st Combat Support Wing participated in a first-of-its-kind trilateral Bomber Task Force planning conference at RAF Fairford, England, Nov. 11-13, 2024. Participants from the Royal Air Force and Royal Norwegian Air Force collaborated with U.S. personnel during the conference, focusing on NATO interoperability across Europe.
December 2024 - Strengthening Arctic Defense: Trilateral exercise tests fifth-generation air power: Norwegian, U.K. and U.S. forces conducted a multi-domain find, fix, track and target military exercise with fifth-generation aircraft Dec. 3 in the High North. The Norwegian-led trilateral exercise bolstered Arctic defense and enhanced NATO interoperability as integrated multi-domain assets worked together to drop live-weapons on targets. The air assets included Norwegian F-35 Lightning IIs and P-8 Poseidon aircraft, U.K. F-35 Lightning IIs and Eurofighter Typhoons, a U.K. RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft, and U.S. B-52 Stratofortress bombers, KC-135 Stratotankers, a U-2 Dragon Lady and F-35 Lightning IIs.
November 2024 - Allies integrate for first-ever B-52 simulated weapons drop in Finland: Two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron conducted a simulated weapons drop training mission as part of Bomber Task Force 25-1 in Finland, Nov. 25. During the mission bombers integrated with Finnish F/A-18C Hornets and Swedish Air Force Saab JAS 39 Gripens. The mission showcased Finland’s growing role within the NATO Alliance and marked another milestone in strengthening NATO’s collective defense. The event also enabled U.S. forces to learn from their Finnish counterparts, following austere landing demonstrations in September and participation in the Ramstein Air Base 1v1 air superiority exercise held in June.
November 2024 - U.S. bombers deploy to England for latest European bomber task force: Four U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortresses assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, arrived at Royal Air Force Fairford, England for Bomber Task Force 25-1, November 8, 2024. Before landing at RAF Fairford, the aircrew integrated with Finnish F-18 Hornets and Swedish JAS 39 Gripens. While deployed, the B-52s will operate as the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron and will integrate with NATO Allies and other international partners to synchronize capabilities and assure security commitments across the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. Airmen from the 501st Combat Support Wing, RAF Fairford, England will serve as support to the EBS throughout the deployment.
"This Bomber Task Force mission exemplifies our unwavering commitment to our European Allies and partners. Together, we build stronger, more strategic relationships that reinforce security and stability across the region,” said Gen. James Hecker, commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa.
September 2024 - Mission Accomplished: Bomber Task Force Pacific concludes: More than 180 Airmen assigned to the 110th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron and three B-2 Spirit stealth bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., arrived last month at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley, Australia, to conduct Joint and multilateral Bomber Task Force missions across the Indo-Pacific region. The 110th EBS logged more than 295 flight hours during the BTF, resulting in 34 sorties flown. They integrated with fourth and fifth generation RAAF aircraft including F-35 Lightning IIs, F-18 Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers, KC-30A multi-role tankers, E-7 Wedgetail and more. Additionally, B-2 aircrews integrated with U.S. Air Force joint terminal attack controllers and RAAF Marine Rotational Force-Darwin for inert bombing runs.
September 2024 - Two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortresses completed a double-transatlantic training mission Wednesday, Sept. 11, demonstrating the service’s ability to integrate with Allied nation forces while providing global strike capabilities anytime, anywhere. During the mission, the B-52s participated in a NATO-led integration exercise in Poland. This training exercise included aircraft and other units from the air, land, sea, cyber, and space domains that focused on integrating multi-domain effects from Allied nations, and improving command and control in a simulated, contested environment. In this instance, more than two dozen fighters, refueling and other aircraft from multiple nations worked in close coordination for the event.
“The successful execution of this NATO-led mission affords us the opportunity to share best practices while also demonstrating our steadfast commitment to Allies,” said Gen. James Hecker, commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. “Our ability to work side-by-side with Allies is a key advantage, sending a message of assurance to our friends while also deterring potential aggressive actions by strategic competitors.”
August 2024 - U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 110th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron completed a hot pit event with the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber during a Bomber Task Force mission, Aug. 21, 2024. Hot pitting is the act of having an aircraft land, refuel and take off without shutting its engines down. Conducting hot pit events in various locations around the globe enables aircrew and support Airmen to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency. The hot pit was part of an overall BTF deployment conducted from Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley, Australia.
August 2024 - A Bomber Task Force deployment of U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, Airmen and support equipment from the 509th Bomb Wing and 131st BW, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, at Royal Australian Air Force Base Amberley, Australia, Aug. 16, 2024. This deployment was in support of Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with allies, partners, and joint forces and strategic deterrence missions to reinforce the rules-based international order.
July 2024 - In a rare deployment to Alaska's airspace, two B-52 Stratofortress from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, recently took part in the Arctic Defender exercise at JBER marking a significant milestone in military cooperation and readiness. The B-52 crew's participation in Arctic Defender not only underscored the strategic importance of U.S. armed forces in Alaska, but also showcased the United States' commitment to enhancing military readiness through multinational exercises. With ongoing challenges and evolving scenarios, exercises like Arctic Defender continue to serve as pivotal training grounds for preparing the next generation of Air Force leaders and operators.
July 2024 - One U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress long-range strategic bomber integrated with U.S. and Coalition forces, 25 July 2024, during the Maritime Fire Support Symposium. During the Bomber Task Force mission in the Middle East, the strategic bomber integrated with U.S. Marine Corps Central Command and other regional partners during the Maritime Fire Support Symposium. The addition of a long-range strategic bomber to the exercise provided the opportunity for Coalition Marine and Naval experts to employ a practical application of airpower to defend forward fighting positions.
July 2024 - U.S. and Partner Nations Conduct Multiple SINKEXs as Part of RIMPAC 2024 - During the SINKEXs, participating units from Australia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and the U.S. Air Force, Army and Navy gained proficiency in tactics, targeting and live firing against surface ships at sea. Events like live-fire SINKEXs give participating nations the ability to test and conduct training on weapons and systems in a realistic environment that cannot be replicated in simulators. Additionally, these training events refine partner nations’ abilities to plan, communicate and conduct complex maritime operations such as precision and long-range strike capabilities.
“Sinking exercises give us a chance to sharpen our skills, learn from one another, and get real-world experience,” said U.S. Navy Vice Adm. John Wade, RIMPAC 2024 Combined Task Force Commander. “Using advanced weapons and seeing the professionalism of our teams during these drills shows our commitment to keeping the Indo-Pacific region safe and open.”
July 2024 - Two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, arrived at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, for Bomber Task Force 24-4, July 21. While flying in international airspace and in accordance with international law, the U.S. B-52 aircraft were intercepted by two Russian aircraft over the Barents Sea at approximately 8 a.m. Central European Time. The U.S. aircraft did not change course due to the intercept and continued along their scheduled flight plan without incident, allowing the B-52s to perform their pre-planned mission which included integration alongside NATO fighter aircraft before landing at Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base. This marks the first time U.S. strategic bomber aircraft have operated out of Romania.
“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,” said Gen. James Hecker, USAFE-AFAFRICA commander. “Through collaborative efforts with our allies, the U.S. enables our forces to combat current and future threats.”
June 2024 - Airmen from the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron returned to Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, June 25, 2024, following the successful completion of Bomber Task Force 24-6 at Andersen AFB, Guam. This mission, conducted with Allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific, achieved significant milestones in strengthening partnerships and advancing strategic objectives.
“The presence of B-1s, long-range strategic bombers, is a crucial demonstration of our commitment to the U.S. National Defense Strategy,” said Lt. Col. Christian Hoover, 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron commander. “Training and operating in highly contested environments enable superior tactics, techniques, and procedures for our Joint and Combined Forces. We are confident in our ability to quickly deploy anytime, anywhere, conducting integrated deterrence to dissuade and defeat aggression.”
May 2024 - A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, receives fuel from a 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker during a routine Bomber Task Force mission over the South China Sea, May 31, 2024
May 2024 - Four U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers assigned to the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron began flying missions in support of Bomber Task Force 24-3 at RAF Fairford, England, May 24, 2024. The B-52 strategic bomber aircraft assigned to Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, arrived as part of a routine deployment to the U.S. Air Forces Europe – Air Forces Africa area of responsibility.
“The main objective for us being here is to show support to our allies, NATO, and provide training to our aircrews on certain aspects of what the B-52 can provide,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Parnel Brim, 69th Aircraft Maintenance Unit production superintendent.
May 2024 - B-1 Lancers assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, arrived at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, in support of a routine Bomber Task Force deployment, 23 May. Members from the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron will integrate and train with Allies, partners, and the Joint Force to enhance readiness and reinforce the rules-based international order in the Pacific.
“When the 37th trains alongside Allies and partners, we gain the opportunity to strengthen our bomber deterrence capabilities and demonstrate interoperability to collectively bolster our ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Lt. Col. Christian Hoover, 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron commander.
April 2024 - U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, returned to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, as they concluded Bomber Task Force 24-2 at Morón Air Force Base, Spain, April 23. During their mission home, the bombers integrated with Typhoons from the United Kingdom. They conducted escort training with their Allies before leaving the theater. All training objectives were achieved.
“This deployment was another excellent opportunity for U.S. forces to demonstrate our ability to operate in conjunction with our Allies and partners to enhance our combined strength,” said Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa and NATO Allied Air Command. “It’s critical to bolstering our extended deterrence and defense network and capable of decisively meeting the security challenges of today and tomorrow.”
March 2024 - Members of the 496th Air Base Squadron are hosting Bomber Task Force 24-2 at Morón Air Base, Spain, beginning March 20, 2024, to help integrated training efforts between Spanish and American militaries. Four U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer aircraft, Airmen and equipment assigned to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, are forward deployed to Morón AB for the BTF, which provides an opportunity to build Ally and partner capacity while improving effectiveness and interoperability across the European theater.
“The BTF allows us to deploy to forward locations to integrate with local forces so we can learn local procedures, airspace, integrate with our Allies and partners and understand the operational environment better,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Stillwell, 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron commander. “We integrate with our Allies and partners in the area of responsibility to practice some of the key skill sets that we would need in future conflict, to prevent that conflict and to assure our allies that we will be there for them.”
March 2024 - The 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, arrived at Morón Air Base, Spain, recently for Bomber Task Force 24-2. BTF 24-2 is the first time the B-1B Lancer has deployed to Morón AB as part of a BTF showcasing the Air Force’s ability to deploy to any place around the world at a moment’s notice and the B-1’s capability to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe.
March 2024 - Two B-52 Stratofortress bombers assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, landed at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, Mar. 22. This deployment aims to enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe, demonstrating the credibility of our forces to address a global security environment that is more diverse and uncertain than at any other time in recent history.
“Bomber task force missions showcase our capability for rapid deployment in support of the combatant commander’s objectives," said Maj. Joshua Dawkins, 96th Bomb Squadron director of operations. "Operating and training in theater enables our crews to maintain proficiency and readiness, while also demonstrating our commitment to our Allies and partners."
February 2024 - U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing, Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, conducted a cross-combatant command mission from their deployed location at Luleå-Kallax Air Base, Sweden, in support of Global Guardian, Feb. 29, 2024. The aircraft departed from Sweden, crossed into the U.S. Northern Command area of responsibility and completed their deployment by returning to Ellsworth AFB, where the B-1Bs are permanently stationed. The bombers and their crews were operating as part of the Bomber Task Force deployment 24-2, where the U.S. was engaged in combined strategic opportunities with NATO Allies and partners, synchronizing capabilities and assuring security commitment in the area of operations.
"This serves as a stellar illustration of NATO's collective deterrence and air defense capabilities," remarked Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa and NATO Allied Air Command. "In the face of today's uncertain global security landscape, preparedness for any scenario is paramount. Through this exercise, we enhance interoperability within the NATO Alliance, reinforcing our commitment to collaborative efforts that foster international security and stability."
February 2024 - U.S. Air Force B-1 Lancers assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing, Ellsworth Air Force Base, launched from their deployed location at Luleå-Kallax Air Base, Sweden, to train alongside Swedish Air Force aircraft Feb. 26, 2024. The mission, dubbed Vanguard Adler, was conducted as part of Bomber Task Force 24-2 and designed to integrate the U.S. bombers with Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters and joint terminal attack controllers operating in the Arctic and Baltic regions. The exercise included surface attack, air interdiction, and close air support scenarios, all aimed at building partnerships and increasing readiness.
“This timely opportunity for our crews to exercise our collective defense capabilities with our Swedish partners, soon to be NATO Allies, in the Artic region is incredible,” said Lt. Col. Benjamin Jamison, 37th Bomb Squadron director of operations and BTF 24-2 lead. “It demonstrates our ironclad commitment to our partners and Allies, demonstrates our expansive reach, and sends a strong deterrent message to potential adversaries.”
2023 Mission Highlights
November 2023 - Airmen from the 2nd Bomb Wing returned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, after completing a Bomber Task Force Mission to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam Nov. 19, 2023, at Barksdale Air Force Base, La. BTF missions strengthen the relationships between U.S. Air Force personnel and our partners in the Indo-Pacific region, enabling collaborative training and demonstrating the United States's commitment to the region's security.
November 2023 - A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron returned to Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, after completing Bomber Task Force mission 24-1 from at RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, Nov. 10, 2023. BTF missions provide opportunities to train and work with our allies and partners in joint and combined operations and exercises.
October 2023 - U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron arrived Tuesday at Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, for a historic hot-pit refuel as part of long-planned bomber task force training mission. A hot-pit refuel refers to the tactic of refueling aircraft while engines are still running. This marks the first time that U.S. Air Force B-1s were hot pit refueled at Incirlik Air Base. The aircraft were on base for under two hours before departing for a training mission with the Turkish air force.
"The teamwork with our Turkish air force partners showcased the interoperability and professionalism of NATO aviators," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ryan Stillwell, and the 489th Bomb Group command deputy commander. "Thank you to the 10th Tanker Base and the 39th Air Base Wing Team Titan for their expert support and hospitality."
October 2023 - More than 100 Airmen and B-1B Lancer aircraft assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, deployed to RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, Thursday for Bomber Task Force-Europe 24-1. The long-planned European BTF deployment provides U.S. and NATO leaders with strategic options to assure Allies and partners, while also deterring potential adversary aggression throughout Europe and across the globe.
“In today's challenging and dynamic security environment, the significance of these missions cannot be overemphasized,” said Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe, U.S. Air Forces Africa and NATO Allied Command. “We're not only demonstrating our commitment to collective defense but also strengthening our ability to respond to potential challenges. This underscores the enduring commitment of the United States to our Allies and partners.”
August - September 2023 - Two B-2 Spirit Bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., made history by refueling for the first time in Ørland Air Station, Norway, Aug. 29. The B-2s are currently operating out of Iceland, as part of the Bomber Task Force Europe. During the BTF, the 393rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron is actively integrating with several NATO Allies to train as a single force.
“It is extremely important that we participate in the Bomber Task Force and train alongside our U.S. Partners,” said Royal Norwegian Air Force Col. Martin Tesli, 132 Air Wing commander. “Being unified in our mission to protect NATO airspace and territories provides a credible deterrence in our mission.”
August 2023 - Throughout the first week of RED FLAG-Alaska 23-3, 20 units based out of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base have trained alongside each other. During this particular iteration of the exercise, a B-2 Spirit from the 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman AFB, Missouri, also took part in the exercise over the Joint Pacific-Alaska Range Complex. The bomber flew from Keflavik Air Base, Iceland, where a total of three B-2 aircraft are currently carrying out Bomber Task Force Missions. BTF missions are representative of the U.S.' extended deterrent commitment to allies and partners while enhancing regional security. They also familiarize aircrew with air bases and operations in different geographic combatant command areas of responsibility. The aim is to enable strategic access and integration with coalition forces in an effort to deter global conflict.
"The B-2 is the most feared and respected weapons system in the world. The world watches when we deploy, and our Allies and adversaries take equal notice,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Stephen Bressett, 393rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron director of operations.
July 2023 - More than 60 Airmen and two B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, completed a bilateral interoperability exercise in Indonesia. The exercise, which lasted about a week and was supported by various U.S. Pacific Air Forces units, marked the first time U.S. Air Force B-52s landed on and operated from Indonesian soil.
“Enhancing interoperability between U.S. and Indonesian air forces contributes to the long-term advancement of our nations’ shared interests,” explained U.S. Air Force Capt. Justin Kinker, 23rd Bomb Squadron weapons officer and exercise team lead. “This was a great opportunity for us to train alongside our partners to bolster our collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Point of Contact
Air Force Global Strike Command
Air Forces Strategic-Air
Public Affairs
245 Davis Ave. E Suite 198
Barksdale AFB, La. 71110
DSN 781-1305 or 318-456-1305
E-mail: AFGSC.PAworkflow@us.af.mil
(Current as of April 2025)