NATO Tests Capabilities in Lithuania with Real B-52 Bombing Exercise Near Russia's Border.

Just kilometers from Russia’s borders, a real bombing exercise conducted by a U.S. B-52H Stratofortress in Lithuania demonstrated NATO’s commitment to maintaining stability in a key European region. Held on November 14-15, 2024, as part of the multinational exercise "Vanguard Merlin," the event involved allied forces, advanced technologies, and highly coordinated operations.

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A bomb detonates during the Bomber Task Force 25-1, exercise Vanguard Merlin at Cudgel Range, Lithuania, Nov. 15, 2024 (Picture source: US Air Force)

The exercise took place at Cudgel Range, a site designed for complex aerial strike maneuvers. The use of live munitions, uncommon for a strategic bomber like the B-52H in Europe, highlighted the operational capabilities of NATO forces. This type of real-world training enhances the precision of airstrikes, tests weapon systems, and strengthens interoperability among participating nations.

A core element of U.S. strategic deterrence for over six decades, the B-52H Stratofortress is a long-range heavy bomber powered by eight Pratt & Whitney TF33-P-3 engines, offering an operational range exceeding 14,000 kilometers, extendable through aerial refueling. It can carry up to 31,500 kilograms of munitions, including conventional guided bombs such as the GBU-38 JDAM, cruise missiles, and nuclear payloads.

The aircraft is equipped with advanced technologies for modern operations, such as the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod for precise designation of stationary and mobile targets. Its electronic warfare systems, including the AN/ALQ-172(V)2 jammer and AN/ALQ-122 decoy generator, enhance survivability against contemporary threats. These features make the B-52H a key asset in multinational exercises and modern conflict scenarios.

The operation brought together a wide range of allied forces, underscoring NATO’s collective commitment to a robust and coordinated defense posture. Alongside the B-52H, an Italian Eurofighter Typhoon participated in air-to-ground strikes, demonstrating the ability of allied air forces to work together effectively. Advanced Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) from Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Sweden, and Norway facilitated coordination between air and ground forces, ensuring the precision of strikes and operational safety.

These complex maneuvers required seamless synchronization among participants, allowing each nation to refine its skills while enhancing overall interoperability. A temporarily deployed Norwegian team further emphasized NATO’s capacity to rapidly project forces into strategic environments.

20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron weapons load crew members, prepare to load GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions onto a B-52H Stratofortress during Bomber Task Force 25-1, at RAF Fairford, England, Nov. 13, 2024 (Picture source: US Air Force)

The exercise reportedly involved the use of GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM), precision-guided bombs recognized for their effectiveness. Based on 500-pound Mk-82 bombs, the GBU-38 incorporates guidance kits with an Inertial Navigation System (INS) and GPS, enabling accurate strikes on fixed and mobile targets regardless of weather conditions or time of day.

With an operational range of up to 28 kilometers when released from high altitude, these munitions minimize collateral damage while delivering significant firepower against military targets. Their deployment in this exercise demonstrates NATO forces’ ability to conduct precision strikes, even in sensitive or urban environments.

Beyond its technical aspects, the Vanguard Merlin exercise carries significant geopolitical weight. Conducted near Russia’s borders, it sends a clear message that NATO remains prepared to respond to threats in the Baltic region. The use of a strategic bomber like the B-52H, capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear payloads, underscores the Alliance’s deterrence capabilities against potential aggression.

The involvement of U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Inga “NATO” Wuerges, a Lithuanian native, added a symbolic dimension to the exercise. Born during Lithuania’s independence struggle, she represents the shared commitment of NATO nations to protecting collective security and freedom. Her role in organizing the exercise highlights the importance of expertise and leadership in such operations.

By conducting precise, multinational strikes, the Vanguard Merlin exercise demonstrated NATO’s ability to operate effectively in complex and sensitive environments. This display of coordination reinforces the Alliance’s credibility as a stabilizing force in a key region of Europe, while affirming its unity in the face of evolving security challenges.