The United States has deployed two intercontinental strategic bombers, B-52 Stratofortress, at the 57th Romanian Air Force Base Mihail Kogălniceanu. They will participate in the Bomber Task Force Europe operation, reports RBC-Ukraine, citing the U.S. Air Forces in Europe.
At their new location, the B-52s will operate as part of the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron of the U.S. Air Force and will begin interacting with NATO forces.
Upon arrival at the Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, the B-52 aircraft, accompanied by fighters from Romania and Finland, conducted a joint flight. As part of the deployment, they will act as the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, integrating with NATO and other international partners to enhance security in the area of responsibility of the U.S. European Command.
This is the first time that American strategic bombers have operated in Romania.
"In the context of global instability, it is important to maintain sustained capabilities over long distances. This operation allows us to refine our tactics and interaction with our forces", - said General James Hecker, commander of USAFE-AFAFRICA.
The United States actively supports NATO allies through BTF missions, which enable USAFE-AFAFRICA to effectively employ forces in Europe, creating strategic confidence and deterring potential adversaries.
"We will work with allies on the eastern flank to ensure security and stability in the region", - Hecker noted.
The deployment of American strategic bombers demonstrates the readiness of the USA and NATO to coordinate and protect the North Atlantic alliance.
It was previously reported that NATO is considering sending troops to Ukraine, but not for combat participation.