Texas (Washington Insider Magazine)— The US has sent four B-1B Lancer supersonic strategic bombers to the Morón facility to increase its military might in Europe. As a component of Exercise Bomber Task Force 24-2 (BTF 24-2), the deployment demonstrates the country’s dedication to maintaining security and stability in the region.
On March 24, 2024, two B-1B Lancers from the 7th Bomb Wing, located at Dyess Air Base, Texas, arrived at the Seville air base at Morón de la Frontera, starting the second phase of BTF 24-2. This was followed later in the week by the arrival of two more bombers, making four in all. Their task is to complete Exercise Bomber Task Force 24-2’s last phase.
The B-1B Lancer, renowned for its capability to carry the largest conventional load of guided and unguided weapons in the USAF inventory, serves as the backbone of the United States’ long-range bomber force. Initially conceptualized in the 1960s, the B-1B entered service in 1986, boasting a formidable array of features suited for various missions.
According to Larzon, designed by Rockwell International, the B-1B’s versatility allows it to rapidly launch precision and non-precision weapons against adversaries worldwide. With its ability to carry up to 34,000 kg of bombs or missiles internally, supplemented by additional external support, the aircraft has proven its effectiveness in numerous combat operations since the 1990s.
General James Hecker, commander of the US Air Forces in Europe-African Air Forces and NATO Allied Air Command, emphasized the significance of forward-positioning strategic bombers in Europe to assure allies and partners of the U.S. commitment to regional security.
During Exercise Global Guardian, a culminating event of BTF 24-2, B-1Bs joined forces with allied nations, conducting intercontinental redeployments and training missions across northern Europe. This mission underscores the dynamic U.S. operations in the European and Arctic regions, fostering interoperability with allies and partners.
BTF 24-2 forms part of the Large-Scale Global Exercise 2024, facilitating training and operational readiness alongside allied forces. The deployment of strategic bombers not only enhances security commitments but also reinforces deterrence against potential adversaries.
In addition to the B-1B deployment, the presence of A10C Thunderbolt II Warthogs from the US Air Force at the Rota Naval Air Base further underscores the nation’s readiness to support its allies and partners in the region.
As tensions persist on the global stage, the U.S. Air Force remains committed to conducting regular and routine deployments, enhancing collective responses to potential conflicts while ensuring strategic predictability and security for allies and partners.