U.S. B-52H bombers arrive in Romania in message to Russia

Two U.S. Air Force B-52H bombers from the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, have arrived at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base in Romania as part of Bomber Task Force 24-4, according to NATO.

This deployment marks the first time U.S. strategic bombers have operated out of Romania, positioning them near Ukraine amidst ongoing regional tensions.

The arrival of the B-52s underscores the U.S. commitment to working alongside NATO allies along the eastern flank. The bombers’ mission is to enhance the combined skills and coordination capabilities necessary to maintain regional safety, security, and stability, as stated by NATO.

During their deployment, the B-52s were intercepted by Russian aircraft over the Barents Sea while flying in international airspace. Despite the intercept, the U.S. aircraft continued their mission without incident and integrated with NATO fighter aircraft before landing at the Romanian base.

General James Hecker, USAFE-AFAFRICA commander, highlighted the significance of this deployment in a statement to the media: “In today’s global environment, it is vital that we be postured to deliver a range of sustainable capability from great distances. This iteration of Bomber Task Force offers an excellent opportunity to refine our agile combat employment tactics, techniques, and procedures,” he said.

“Through collaborative efforts with our allies, the U.S. enables our forces to combat current and future threats.”

The deployment will see the B-52s operating near the Black Sea coast and integrating with NATO allies and other international partners.

Regular deployments of U.S. strategic bombers demonstrate the readiness and integration capability of the U.S. and NATO forces to deter threats and defend the Alliance, reinforcing the transatlantic link within NATO and cohesion among allied air forces.

General Hecker added, “The U.S. is dedicated to work alongside our NATO allies along the eastern flank to ensure we have the combined skills and coordination capabilities necessary to maintain regional safety, security, and stability.”