LAJES FIELD AIR BASE, REGIãO AUTóNOMA DOS AçORES -- A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 345th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron stopped for a hot pit refuel while supporting a Bomber Task Force Europe mission at Lajes Field, Azores, Aug. 22, 2025. Hot-pit refueling allows aircraft to stay in the air longer, providing fuel to the fight and minimizing time on the ground. These exercises increase U.S. and partner nation’s ability to generate and sustain combat airpower throughout the European theater.