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Statement

Statement | Jan. 8, 2021

U.S. Central Command statement on first bomber mission of 2021

By U.S. Central Command Public Affairs U.S. Central Command Communication Integration

TAMPA, Fla.  –  

Two U.S. Air Force B-52H bombers conducted a Bomber Task Force mission today in the Middle East to demonstrate the U.S. military's continuing commitment to regional security and deterrence to aggression.

The aircrews flew a 36-hour, non-stop mission from the 5th Bomb Wing's home at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., to the Arabian Gulf and back to send a clear deterrent message by displaying the ability to deploy overwhelming combat power on short notice.

The temporary deployment, the fourth in the last two months and the command's first bomber mission of 2021, is one element of a robust U.S. defensive posture that includes the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) aircraft carrier and other assets.

The B-52H "Stratofortress" is a long-range, heavy bomber that can perform a variety of missions. The bomber can fly at high subsonic speeds at altitudes reaching 50,000 feet. It has an unrefueled combat range in excess of 8,800 miles. The B-52H can carry precision guided ordnance with worldwide precision navigation.

"America doesn't seek conflict," said U.S. Navy Capt. Bill Urban, U.S. Central Command spokesman. "This mission is a measured approach to demonstrate that we are committed to the defense of our forces in the region and are capable of responding to any aggression on short notice."