Four Boeing B-52 Stratofortresses have been deployed to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire as part of the latest European Bomber Task Force by the United States Air Force (USAF).
The aircraft will operate as the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron taking part in exercises together with NATO Allies and other international partners to test and hone NATO cooperation to ensure security commitments across the region.
The aircraft flew in from Barksdale Air Force Base (AFB) Louisiana and before arriving at RAF Fairford the aircrews integrated with Finnish F-18 Hornets and Swedish JAS 39 Gripens.
Gen. James Hecker, commander, U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa said: “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,”
He added: “Through these missions, we not only demonstrate the global reach of our bomber forces, but also the strength of our collective partnerships in Europe, ensuring we remain agile and ready to address any challenge,” said Hecker. “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,”
Whilst in the UK, the Bomber Squadron will be supported by airmen of the 501st Combat Support Wing which is based at RAF Fairford.
The Boeing B52 Stratofortress is the USAF’s long range nuclear capable strategic bomber. It first entered service in 1955 as the B52B and through upgrades and improvements has become the B52H. The current raft of aircraft have been in service since 1961.
In total 744 B52’s were built including production and test models of which 102 are the current B52H model.
Further upgrades are planned to the engines in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The 8 Turbojet engines on each aircraft will be replaced with F130 Turbofans and will be designated the B52J.