US Bombs Targets By Russian Border

U.S. B-52 Stratofortress bombers assigned to the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron integrated with NATO Allies in executing Bomber Task Force 25-1, exercise Vanguard Merlin at Cudgel Range, Lithuania, Nov. 14-15, 2024. Multilateral exercises serve as visible symbols in support of assurance and deterrence objectives to NATO Allies and partners. These exercises also provide valuable opportunities to synchronize and operate as a cohesive alliance that is ready and postured.

During the exercise, a U.S. B-52 Stratofortress and an Italian Eurofighter Typhoon performed air-to-ground range training with targeting aid from Lithuanian, Czech, Swedish and Norwegian joint terminal attack controllers. Additionally, a temporarily enhanced deployed team from Norway was present, further showcasing NATO’s commitment to defending the alliance.

“BTF comes to the European theater a few times during the fiscal year, which gives our Allies and partners invaluable training opportunities,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Inga “NATO” Wuerges, 603rd Air Operations Center tanker planner. “When we do live drops in ranges throughout NATO, all Allies and partners get the chance to enhance readiness capabilities to operate in a more diverse and challenging environment.”

Working side-by-side, nations participating in BTF exercises are able to refine their skills and share their vision for a secure and prosperous NATO Alliance.

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