Two US Air Force B-1B Lancers during Bomber Task Force 24-2 at Morón Air Base, Spain. (Photo: Scott Rathbone / Flickr)

Two imposing US Air Force B-1B Lancers landed this week at Morón Air Base in Spain, joining the two already stationed there and totaling four USAF aircraft at the base. This arrival marks the successful conclusion of the Bomber Task Force (BTF) 24-2 deployment, which took place on Tuesday (03/26).

The B-1B Lancers made the journey to Europe via the Barents Sea. Throughout the transit, the four US aircraft operated in international airspace, fully compliant with international law.

General James Hecker, commander of US Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa and NATO Allied Air Command, underscored the strategic importance of this deployment: “Our ability to maneuver through the Arctic and position advanced strategic bombers in Europe is critical to assuring our Allies and partners of our commitment to regional security and stability. The global security environment demands a forward-looking approach, and we will continue to meet this challenge through strategic planning and innovative operations.”

BTF 24-2 is an essential component of Exercise Global Lightning 2024, encompassing a wide range of US military exercises and activities under various combatant commands. This initiative allows the US Joint Forces to train with Allies and partners, enhancing mutual understanding, trust, and interoperability in security challenges worldwide.

During their stay at Morón Air Base, the bombers and support personnel will conduct training missions alongside Allies and partners. These dynamic operations provide strategic predictability and assurance to Allies and partners in the European region while contributing to deterrence by introducing greater operational unpredictability for potential adversaries.