B-1B Lancer bombers arrived in Norway for A2AD exercises

BTF 25-4B: strengthening presence in Europe

Three B-1B Lancer strategic bombers assigned to the 345th Expeditionary Bomber Squadron were deployed to Erland Air Base in Norway. This step was part of the next phase of operational activities called Bomber Task Force (BTF) 25-4B, aimed at demonstrating the ability of the US Air Force to quickly deploy powerful strike forces to key regions of Europe and the Arctic.

The deployment underscores the U.S. commitment to its obligations to NATO allies and serves as a deterrent in the face of growing activity in the northern regions.

Composition and command of the expeditionary group

The bombers are assigned to the 7th Bomber Squadron based at Dice Air Force Base in Texas. However, for this mission, they are included in the special force integration group, which includes approximately 30% of active and 70% of reservists. The overall command of the operation is carried out by the 489th Bomber Group, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the interaction between the regular and reserve components of the Air Force.

This structure allows you to maintain a high level of combat readiness with flexible use of human resources.

Restricted Access Exercises (A2AD)

Planned deployments such as BTF 25-4B are aimed at practicing actions in realistic conditions that simulate the threats of "access restriction and Area Denial" (Anti-Access/Area Denial, A2AD) systems. These scenarios involve dense air defense, electronic jamming, and limited freedom of maneuver, which requires crews to be highly adaptable, use advanced tactics, and work closely with intelligence and electronic means.

The exercises in Norway, with its difficult terrain and circumpolar location, are ideal for practicing such tasks.

The role of the B-1B in the U.S. Air Force's strategy in the Arctic and Europe

Despite the gradual reduction of the B-1B fleet, bombers remain an important element of the US strategic arsenal. Their high speed, heavy payload, and ability to carry both conventional and precision-guided cruise missiles make them a versatile platform for operations in Europe and the Arctic.

The deployment on Erland, a strategically important point near the North Sea, enhances the Air Force's ability to respond quickly to any challenges in the region.

Late-night drama in Davis-Montaigne: a security guard shot dead an intruder trying to enter the airbase

On Friday night, a serious incident occurred at the Davis-Monthan Military Air Base, located near Tucson, Arizona. Security personnel were forced to use deadly fire to stop a man who tried to illegally enter the territory of one of the key US military bases.

According to the US Air Force, at about 2:30 a.m., the suspect, who, according to officials, was not a soldier, drove up to the main gate of the base. Instead of stopping and presenting his documents, as required by the protocol, the man did not stop and did not introduce himself. Moreover, he drove the car extremely uncertainly, crashed into the installed security barrier, and then abruptly reversed, creating a real threat to the personnel and the very infrastructure of the base.

In this tense and dangerous situation, a security officer from the 355 Squadron of the security forces decided to shoot the suspect in order to stop his transport and neutralize the threat. The incident highlights the high level of vigilance that is maintained at military installations, especially in the face of the constant threat of terrorism and unauthorized access.

The C-130J will have "fins" — the US Air Force is testing a new product to save fuel

 

American C—130J Hercules transporters may have strange fins on their tails. The US Air Force, more specifically the Special Operations Command (AFSOC), has begun testing thin keel plates developed by Vortex Control Technologies. They look like small aerodynamic "ears" — but, according to the idea, they should seriously improve the characteristics of the aircraft.

What does this mean? The main goal is to reduce fuel consumption and increase flight range. The plates work according to the principle of controlling air vortices in the tail section of the aircraft — they "smooth out" the flow, reduce turbulence and, as a result, reduce aerodynamic drag.

For C-130J-type transporters, who often fly with heavy loads, at the limit of their capabilities and without fuel reserves, even a small gain in efficiency is already a victory. We may be talking about percentages, but on the scale of a fleet and long—term operation, this means millions of dollars in savings.

Plus, the increased range is especially important for special forces: they often need to fly far, quietly and without refueling. Any improvement is a direct bonus in survival and mission flexibility.

The best part is that the system is cheap and easy to install. No alterations to the engine or fuselage. They just screwed on the plates and flew on, spending less.

If the tests are successful, the entire C-130J fleet can be equipped with such "fins". And who would have thought — the future of fuel economy does not start with a new engine, but with small parts on the tail.

The US Air Force tested AI in combat: the machine chose targets for the pilots

The US Air Force has taken another step towards the future — for the first time they have tested a system in which artificial intelligence selects combat targets in conditions as close as possible to real combat.

This happened during a four-day exercise called Experiment 3 last month. According to the BBC, it was a real breakthrough — the debut of a "new methodology" that had never been used before. Simply put, they rewrote the rules of the game.

Previously, pilots and analysts spent hours poring over data to decide where to fly, who to attack, and in what order. AI now analyzes information flows in seconds, from satellites to radars and intelligence, and suggests priority targets on its own. And not just "there's a tank there," but: "this object poses the greatest threat, it has weak protection, and destroying it will give a strategic advantage."

In the exercises, the AI not only found targets, but also helped to build an attack plan: calculated routes, assessed risks, and suggested optimal weapons. All this is in real time, when the situation is changing every minute.

Because in a real battle, especially against a strong opponent like China or Russia, the military will not have time for long planning. You need to make decisions faster than the enemy. AI allows you to "win at pace."

So far, the final decision remains with the human — the pilot or commander can agree with the AI or reject its recommendation. But one thing is clear: the pilots of the future will work in tandem with artificial intelligence, as with a smart partner who sees everything and thinks faster.

This is no longer fiction. This is Experiment 3, and it has shown that the war of the 21st century will be smart, fast... and controlled by algorithms.

The US Air Force activates the Nellis squadron to test combat drones with artificial intelligence

On June 5, 2025, the United States Air Force took an important step in the development of modern aerial combat technologies by establishing the Experimental Operations Unit (EOU) at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. The new Nellis squadron will specialize in testing and deploying combat drones equipped with advanced artificial intelligence systems.

The EOU aims to rethink the concept of aerial combat by integrating autonomous drones capable of operating as part of manned and unmanned groups, performing reconnaissance missions and supporting pilots in real time. The use of AI will increase the speed of decision-making, improve coordination and increase the effectiveness of combat operations.

The creation of the unit reflects the desire of the US Air Force to maintain technological superiority and adapt to new challenges in the field of air dominance, where autonomous systems are playing an increasingly important role. Nellis Air Base, known as the center for advanced testing and training, has become an ideal platform for the implementation of this innovative project.

In the near future, a series of tests is expected to be conducted aimed at developing tactics for interaction between manned aircraft and combat drones with AI, as well as evaluating their combat capabilities in various scenarios.

The US Air Force has successfully tested a lightweight version of the QUICKSINK anti-ship aerial bomb

On June 4, 2025, the US Air Force successfully tested a new lightweight version of the QUICKSINK anti-ship munition at the Gulf Test Range at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. During the test, the B-2 Spirit strategic stealth bomber dropped a 500-pound (about 226 kg) high-precision aerial bomb, demonstrating its flexibility and expanding the arsenal of weapons to defeat naval targets.

The QUICKSINK program is aimed at creating inexpensive, but powerful and accurate weapons capable of effectively hitting both stationary and moving surface ships. The new lightweight version of the munition expands the operational capabilities of combat unit commanders, allowing them to quickly respond to threats in the marine environment.

Dan Lehoski, Commander of the 53rd Air Wing, described QUICKSINK as an "affordable and revolutionary solution" for neutralizing naval targets. The project is being implemented jointly by the US Air Force Research Laboratory, the Air Force Combat Test Center and the Air Combat Operations Command.

The tests took place against the backdrop of the build-up of China's naval forces, which has the world's largest fleet, which poses serious challenges to US dominance in the Pacific Ocean. The development of QUICKSINK is designed to increase the effectiveness of American forces in countering such threats.

The US Air Force has begun preparations for the deployment of the new LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile

On May 30, 2025, the Public Relations Department of the 5th Bombardment Wing officially announced the start of preparations for the deployment of the U.S. Air Force's future LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). This step marks an important stage in the modernization of the country's strategic nuclear forces.

To support this initiative, a specialized unit Sentinel Site Activation Task Force (SATAF) Detachment 12 was established at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota. This unit is responsible for the activation and preparation of facilities for the deployment of the new missile, which is designed to replace the outdated Minuteman III system, which has served since 1970.

The LGM-35A Sentinel program is a key part of the broader strategic plan to modernize the ground support of the U.S. nuclear triad. The new missile has improved performance in terms of accuracy, reliability, and the ability to overcome modern missile defense systems.

Replacing the Minuteman III with the LGM-35A Sentinel will strengthen nuclear deterrence and enhance the security of the United States and its allies, providing a modern and reliable component of the nuclear triad.

The Chinese company MizarVision has published a satellite image of the US base on Diego Garciа

 

On May 15, 2025, the commercial Chinese satellite company MizarVision took and published a highly detailed image of the joint British-American military base on the island of Diego Garcia, located in the Indian Ocean. The photo clearly shows the US Air Force planes parked on the runway.

This island is part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and has played a key strategic role for the United States since the middle of the twentieth century. The Diego Garcia base serves as an important logistical and operational hub for the U.S. military, especially in the context of operations in South Asia and the Middle East.

The appearance of a detailed image obtained by a private Chinese company has aroused interest from analysts and satellite surveillance experts. Such images are becoming an indicator of the growth of China's commercial space industry and its ability to collect information previously available only to government agencies or large Western companies.

Although the publication does not contain classified information, it demonstrates how commercial Earth remote sensing technologies are increasingly being used to monitor strategic sites. This can have implications for global security and international transparency.

The US Air Force conducts Skyway Chariot exercises to test the combat readiness of the 100th Air Refueling Wing

 

As part of strengthening its global strategic mobility, the US Air Force conducted a large-scale Skyway Chariot exercise, which was attended by American pilots and engineers from the 100th Engineering Squadron. The exercises were held at the base The United Kingdom's Royal Air Force Feltwell in Norfolk County and were sent for a comprehensive assessment of the combat readiness and operational effectiveness of the 100th Air Refueling Wing.

The main objective of the exercise was to test the wing's ability  to generate, apply, maintain and project combat power in conditions of high intensity and  fierce confrontation, which is especially important to ensure long-range operations of modern fighters and bombers.

The participants worked out scenarios for rapid aerial refueling, logistics and technical support in real combat conditions. Special attention was paid to the interaction between the American and British forces, which underlines the importance of international cooperation in the field of defense.

These exercises are part of a broader program to increase the resilience and flexibility of the U.S. Air Force by strengthening logistical and logistical links, especially in Europe, where geopolitical tensions remain high.

The US Air Force has deployed air defense systems to Israel: details of a large-scale operation

C-17A Globemaster III

Eight C-17A Globemaster III transport aircraft operating under the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command were spotted on a strategic mission to transfer air defense systems from Ramstein Air Base in Germany to Nevatim Air Base in southern Israel. This step raises questions about its goals and significance in the context of the current geopolitical situation.

The C-17A Globemaster III is one of the most reliable military transport aircraft in the world, capable of transporting bulky cargo over long distances. Its use for this operation underscores the importance and urgency of delivering air defense systems to Israel. Although the exact nature of the systems being transported has not been disclosed, experts suggest that this may be due to the strengthening of Israeli defensive capabilities amid growing threats in the region.

Ramstein Air Base in Germany is a key logistics hub for U.S. and NATO operations in Europe and the Middle East. The transfer of weapons from this base to Israel indicates coordination between Washington and Jerusalem on security issues. Nevatim Air Base, located in southern Israel, is known for its role in deploying modern air defense technologies such as the Iron Dome and David's Sling systems.

 This operation may be a reaction to increased tensions in the region, including the activation of Iranian forces and their allies. The deployment of air defense systems allows Israel to increase its level of protection against potential missile or drone attacks, which is especially important in the context of instability in the Middle East.

However, it remains unclear whether these systems are a temporary support measure or part of a long-term strategy to strengthen Israel's defense capabilities. In addition, this step may be a signal to other countries in the region about the readiness of the United States to support its allies even in difficult conditions.

The large-scale operation using eight C-17A Globemaster III also demonstrates the logistical capabilities of the U.S. Air Force and its ability to respond quickly to changes in global security. This highlights the importance of aviation mobility as a key element of modern military strategy.

The US Air Force is restoring decommissioned B-1B Lancer bombers to maintain combat capability

The US Air Force has begun the return to service of two decommissioned B-1B Lancer bombers, symbolically named Rage and Lancelot. These aircraft were recovered from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, known as the "Boneyard" (aircraft cemetery), where decommissioned aircraft systems were stored. The decision to rebuild these bombers was caused by a reduction in the size of the existing fleet due to accidents and technical problems.

The process of returning the B-1B Lancer to service requires considerable effort. Restoration includes extensive maintenance, retrofitting legacy systems, and ensuring full operational availability. This is a complex task that requires coordination between military specialists, engineers, and contractors. However, it is precisely such measures that allow the US Air Force to maintain the necessary level of combat capability in the face of increasing global threats.

The B-1B Lancer, known for its speed and ability to carry a large number of weapons, remains an important element of US strategic aviation. Despite the fact that these aircraft were decommissioned as part of a fleet modernization program, the current situation is forcing the Air Force command to reconsider its plans. Decommissioned aircraft now play a key role in compensating for losses and maintaining operational capabilities.

Analysts note that the restoration of decommissioned bombers is a temporary solution that helps smooth out the effects of the reduction in the number of modern combat aircraft. However, in the long term, the US Air Force should focus on developing new technologies and platforms, such as the B-21 Raider bomber, in order to maintain its leadership in the field of strategic aviation.

The decision to return Rage and Lancelot also highlights the importance of the reserve fund of military equipment stored at the Davis-Monthan base. These aircraft serve as a kind of "insurance", allowing you to quickly make up for losses if necessary.

 B-1B Lancer bomber

The first F-15EX Eagle II from Batch 2 is being prepared for delivery to the US Air Force

F-15EX Eagle II 

Boeing Corporation has announced the completion of the preparation of the first F-15EX Eagle II from the second batch for delivery to the US Air Force. This aircraft will be the third F-15EX assigned to the 142nd Wing (142nd WG) of the Oregon Air National Guard. The Boeing message, accompanied by a photo of the completed aircraft, confirms that delivery is expected in the coming days.

The F-15EX Eagle II is a modern fighter aircraft that combines time-tested technology with the latest innovations. This aircraft is designed to replace the aging F-15C/D models and provide the U.S. Air Force with a highly efficient and multifunctional fighter.

The 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard will be one of the first units to receive the F-15EX Eagle II. This wing is known for its high combat readiness and professionalism, and the new aircraft will significantly enhance its capabilities. The delivery of a third F-15EX to this unit underscores the importance of modernizing and strengthening U.S. defense capabilities.

The F-15EX Eagle II is equipped with modern weapons systems, radars and avionics, making it one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world. The aircraft is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including air superiority, striking ground targets and protecting airspace.

The delivery of the F-15EX Eagle II is an important step in the modernization strategy of the US Air Force. The new aircraft will significantly increase combat capability and readiness to perform various missions. This is especially important in the context of modern challenges and threats faced by the US armed forces.

Boeing continues to work on fulfilling contracts and delivering new F-15EX aircraft. In the coming years, a significant increase in the number of these aircraft in the arsenal of the US Air Force is expected. This will not only replace outdated models, but also strengthen the US position on the world stage.

Israeli and American Air Forces Strengthen Cooperation: Joint Air Exercises

On Thursday, the Israeli Air Force (IAF) and the United States Air Force conducted joint aerial exercises aimed at strengthening and maintaining the long-standing cooperation between the two countries. These exercises were an important step in expanding collaboration and creating integrated capabilities for different scenarios.

The main purpose of the exercises was to strengthen the long-standing cooperation between the Israeli Air Force and the United States. In a rapidly changing geopolitical environment, such exercises play a key role in maintaining a high level of readiness and compatibility between the armed forces of the two countries.

The exercises included various scenarios aimed at improving coordination and interaction between Israeli and American pilots. This allows you to create integrated capabilities that can be used in real combat conditions.

During the exercises, modern technologies and weapons were tested, which allows both sides to exchange experience and knowledge. This is especially important in an environment where technological superiority plays a crucial role in modern military conflicts.

The joint exercises of the Israeli and US Air Forces emphasize the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Strengthening cooperation and expanding cooperation allows both sides to be prepared for any challenges and threats. These exercises were another step towards strengthening security and stability in the region.

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Cooperation between Israel and the United States continues to be a key element in ensuring security and stability in the Middle East. The joint exercises of the Air Forces of the two countries demonstrate readiness for joint action and emphasize the importance of strategic partnership in the face of modern challenges.