American bombers launch ‘simulated missile strike’ in Europe

The skies over Eastern and Southern Europe became a stage for unmatched aerial power as the U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortresses joined forces with Romanian F-16 Vipers, Croatian Rafales, and Bulgarian MiG-29s for ONYX CROSS, a high-intensity Bomber Task Force 25-2 mission aimed at enhancing readiness, deterrence, and combat lethality.

Launching from RAF Fairford, UK, the legendary B-52 bombers executed precision strike drills and dynamic combat simulations, proving their ability to integrate seamlessly with NATO’s cutting-edge fighter fleets.

“BTF missions serve as an assurance and deterrence initiative – they aim to provide a strategic element to NATO’s collective defense” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Aaron Gurley, a BTF planner with U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa.

The multinational exercise tested the agility and coordination of allied air forces, demanding split-second decision-making and the ability to adapt to dynamic combat scenarios.

The mission unfolded in three key phases:

• Standoff Weapons Simulation: B-52 bombers launched a simulated missile strike from outside an adversary’s threat range, coordinating with Romanian F-16s to ensure precision engagement.
• Simulated Bomb Drop: The Stratofortresses then shifted to pre-planned strategic target strikes, integrating with Bulgarian MiG-29s for a high-speed dynamic targeting drill.
• Close-Air Support Operations: In the final phase, Croatian Rafales and Bulgarian MiG-29s provided aerial protection, ensuring the bombers could deliver decisive blows against simulated enemy positions.

“The B-52 integrates seamlessly with Allied and partner forces through combined operations like ONYX CROSS,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Jacob “Crash” Carlson, a 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron pilot.

“We refine tactics, communication, and operational coordination. Using secure networks, we share real-time data, ensuring close integration for strategic deterrence, close-air support, and precision strike missions.”

Since deploying to RAF Fairford, the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron has flown seven missions, conducting highly complex training across multiple theaters with NATO and allied air forces.

“Operating alongside partners has shaped my approach by emphasizing clear communication, adaptability to different frameworks, and leveraging coalition strengths to achieve mission success,” added Capt. Carlson.

These real-world exercises refine combat readiness, ensuring that when called upon, U.S. and NATO airpower can strike with precision, dominance, and coordination.

ONYX CROSS is a demonstration of strength, unity, and deterrence. By integrating airpower across nations, missions like ONYX CROSS reinforce NATO’s ability to operate as a single, lethal force, securing stability in the Euro-Atlantic region and ensuring allied dominance in the face of emerging threats.