The U.S. Air Force’s 2nd Bomb Wing B-52H Stratofortress at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, completed a mission with U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa in the Mediterranean Sea on May 26, 2021.

The bombers integrated Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft and Hellenic F-16 aircraft over the eastern Mediterranean before proceeding to counter-maritime integration with P-8A Poseidon aircraft assigned to Patrol Squadron 40 of the American naval forces Europe-Africa (VP-40). The Turkish F-16 plane that currently supports NATO’s reinforced air police escorted the B-52H plane on its return to Morón Air Base, Spain.

The US Air Force is engaged, stationed and ready with a credible force to secure, deter and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. Strategic bombing missions underscore the ability of US forces to project their power anywhere in the world.

“Integration with our Navy and Special Operations counterparts continues to provide valuable training opportunities for aircrew,” said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, commander of US Air Forces Europe-Air Forces Africa. “As we learn from each other, we hone our skills and become a better and stronger joint force.”

VP-40 serves simultaneously under CTF 67 performing maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions in theaters of Central and South America, Europe and Africa. The P-8A Poseidon provides the fleet with essential information on both peace and conflict support operations.

US Naval Forces Europe and Africa / US Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance states’ national interests United, security and stability in Europe and Africa. .

The missions of the Bomber Task Force demonstrate the United States’ commitment to NATO’s collective defense and contribute to stability in the European theater. Our ability to react quickly and to reassure allies and partners depends on the fact that we are here in Europe ready and ready.

Ongoing coverage of this deployment will be available on this website and on the DVIDS hub at: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/bombertaskforceeurope.