US deploys strategic bombers on Romania-Ukraine border
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
The United States has deployed two B-52 Stratofortress intercontinental strategic bombers to Romania's 57th Air Force Base, Mihail Kogelniceanu. They will participate in the Bomber Task Force Europe operation, according to the press service of the US Air Force in Europe.
At the new location, they will operate as part of the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron of the US Air Force, and will also begin to interact with NATO forces.
Upon arrival at Mihail Kogelniceanu Air Base, the B-52s, accompanied by fighter jets from Romania and Finland, conducted a joint flight. As part of the deployment, they will operate as the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, integrating with NATO and other international partners to improve security in the US European Command area of responsibility.
This is the first time that US strategic bombers have operated in 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 General James Hecker, commander of USAFE-AFRICA.
The US actively supports NATO Allies through BTF missions, which enables USAFE-AFAFRICA to effectively employ forces in Europe, creating strategic confidence and deterring potential adversaries.
"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," Hecker said.
The deployment of US strategic bombers demonstrates the readiness of the United States and NATO to coordinate and defend the Alliance.
US troops in Europe
Even before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the United States decided to deploy 3,000 troops to Europe.
CNN recently reported that most of the weapons in the new US aid package have been prepositioned in Germany and Poland. This will speed up the delivery to Ukraine.
