American B-52 bomber to fly low over Norwegian capital city

On Friday, a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress will conduct a low-altitude flyover of Akershus Fortress in Oslo at noon, escorted by Norwegian F-35s.

The flight is part of planned training activities between the two nations and serves to enhance interoperability between the Norwegian Armed Forces and U.S. strategic bombers.

The United States regularly deploys its Bomber Task Force (BTF) to Nordic countries to strengthen cooperation with allies in the region.

According to Col. David Herndon, USAFE-AFAFRICA senior spokesperson, “We are excited to take part in the low pass over Oslo during Bomber Task Force 25-2. These missions strengthen readiness and demonstrate the ability to rapidly project decisive combat capabilities. Training alongside Norway highlights our strong bi-lateral relationship and the utility of seamless cooperation during BTF operations.”

The presence of American bombers in Norwegian airspace underscores the continued U.S. commitment to regional security, according to Norwegian Minister of Defence, Tore O. Sandvik. “The USA is our largest and most important ally, and it is important that they come here and train with us. The fact that the Americans come to Norway to train with the Norwegian Armed Forces is an important signal of American commitment to European and Norwegian security,” Sandvik stated.

Norwegian forces regularly conduct exercises with NATO allies to secure airspace and enhance operational cooperation. The Bomber Task Force programme was established in 2018, and multiple joint operations have since been carried out with the United States and other NATO partners.

The flight will be noticeable throughout the city, particularly in central Oslo. The Norwegian Armed Forces will provide photos and video recordings of the event.

Colonel Michael Baas Bottenvik-Hartmann, deputy commander at the national air operations centre/JAOC, emphasised the significance of these missions, stating: “The missions contribute to the joint development of the BTF concept. It provides valuable training and enables us to jointly carry out complex operations quickly and efficiently.”

The Bomber Task Force programme has become an established framework for U.S.-Norwegian military cooperation, with several training exercises conducted annually. Similar flights have also involved other Nordic countries, including Sweden, Finland, and Denmark.

While the event is scheduled for 12:00, the Norwegian Armed Forces have noted that timings may be subject to change.