The second phase of Bomber Task Force (BTF) 24-2, the initial part taking place in Sweden earlier this year, this was the first time B-1Bs had undertaken such a deployment to Morón.
The first pair of US Air Force Lancers, 85-0061/DY and 86-0124/DY, arrived in Spain on March 24, followed by 86-0117/DY and 86-0125/DY two days later.
A United States European Command statement said: “The strategic bombers transited into US European Command’s area of operations, going through the Barents Sea. Throughout the missions the four US aircraft were operating in international airspace and in full accordance with international law.”
General James Hecker, commander of US Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa and NATO Allied Air Command, said: “Our ability to manoeuvre through the Arctic, and forward posture strategic bombers in Europe, is key to assuring our Allies and partners of our commitment to regional security and stability.”
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