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US Deploys B-52 Heavy Bombers to Lithuania Following Russia ICBM Test.
On November 25, 2024, two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bombers from the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron conducted a training mission in Finland, simulating the precision delivery of weapons. This operation, part of the Bomber Task Force 25-1 mission, highlights the strengthening of military cooperation between NATO Allies and partners in the region. Finnish F/A-18C Hornets and Swedish JAS 39 Gripens participated in the exercise, demonstrating the integrated capabilities of the involved forces.
US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress long-range heavy bomber (Picture source: US MoD)
This mission is part of a series of collaborative efforts to enhance NATO’s operational readiness in the Nordic and Baltic regions. Earlier this year, U.S. forces conducted austere landing demonstrations in Finland, showcasing NATO’s air power adaptability. Additionally, Finnish pilots participated in the 1v1 air superiority exercise at Ramstein Air Base in June, further honing their combat skills in joint environments.
The deployment of B-52H bombers to Finland for a simulated weapons drop can also be seen as a strong signal from the United States, emphasizing its strategic strike capability, including its nuclear deterrence. These exercises take place against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions with Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and Moscow’s escalating nuclear rhetoric.
This show of force also responds to recent Russian military developments, such as the testing of the RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile, sometimes referred to as a "mini-Sarmat." Despite delays in its program, the RS-26 was successfully tested by Russia in 2013 and has reemerged as a symbol of its intermediate and intercontinental nuclear capabilities.
By deploying B-52H bombers in a region close to Russia’s borders, the United States reaffirms its commitment to the security of Baltic and Nordic nations while sending a clear message about its ability to rapidly deploy strategic forces as part of its nuclear deterrence. Finland, which joined NATO in April 2023, and Sweden, currently awaiting membership, amplify the symbolic importance of this operation, underlining NATO’s integrated capabilities to address shared threats.
The B-52H Stratofortress, a long-range heavy bomber, is a cornerstone of U.S. strategic airpower. Equipped with eight Pratt & Whitney TF33-P-3/103 turbofan engines, it has a combat range exceeding 14,000 km with in-flight refueling. It can carry a payload of over 31,500 kg, including precision-guided conventional munitions, cruise missiles, and nuclear weapons. Its advanced radar and electronic countermeasure systems enhance survivability in contested environments, and modern upgrades like enhanced communication systems and radar improvements ensure its operational relevance across multiple domains.
The B-52H is capable of carrying a wide range of armaments, making it a versatile asset for strategic missions. It can deploy unguided conventional bombs such as the MK-82, as well as precision-guided munitions like JDAMs (Joint Direct Attack Munitions). For long-range capabilities, it can carry AGM-86B nuclear-capable cruise missiles and AGM-86C/D conventional cruise missiles. It is also equipped to deploy AGM-158 JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile), providing long-range strike capabilities. On the nuclear side, the B-52 can deliver thermonuclear bombs like the B61 and B83. Its flexible payload also includes maritime mines and specialized munitions for anti-surface or anti-ship missions, addressing a wide array of strategic and tactical threats.
As a reminder, Lithuania officially joined NATO on March 29, 2004, becoming a crucial part of the Alliance's security framework in the Baltic region. Since then, it has actively participated in NATO missions, including ISAF in Afghanistan and the NATO Air Policing program. In response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its ongoing war in Ukraine since 2022, Lithuania has hosted rotational Allied forces under NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence (EFP) initiative since 2017, aimed at deterring Russian aggression. Lithuania’s role within NATO was further solidified with the establishment of the Multinational Division North-East Headquarters in Vilnius in 2020. The country hosted the NATO Summit in July 2023, reaffirming its commitment to countering Russian threats and supporting Ukraine.