Home  /  Newsroom  /  2021  /  Allied 5th Generation fighters join U.S. B1 Bombers over the Arctic

RAMSTEIN, Germany – Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35s joined two US B-1B Lancers over the Arctic region, on November 1. The latest Allied mission was part of a long-planned deployment of the bombers to Europe, designed to strengthen collective defence and security across the region.

The bombers and fighters executed a joint targeting mission controlled by Norwegian Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs). The cooperation between air and land forces to execute a joint mission is a key Allied capability that requires constant practise to optimise communications and procedures. The mission also focused on integration and interoperability between the F-35s, the most advanced fighter platform flown by several NATO nations, and the supersonic B-1B strategic bomber.

Combining fifth-generation assets with long-range strike capabilities strengthens our collective deterrence

"Bomber Task Force missions optimise integration between NATO Allies while enhancing our response to threats throughout the Arctic," said General Jeff Harrigian, Commander Allied Air Command. "Combining fifth-generation assets with long-range strike capabilities strengthens our collective deterrence."

As a force multiplier, the F-35 aircraft offers unparalleled command and control for powerful battlespace awareness. Combined with the reach of the B-1B and ability to employ mixed force packages, the 5^th Generation aircraft offers a spectrum of options for Alliance commanders.

Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35s joined two US B-1B Lancers over the Arctic region, on November 1. Archived photo courtesy of Royal Norwegian Air Force. 

Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35s joined two US B-1B Lancers over the Arctic region, on November 1. Archived photo by U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Colin Hollowell. 

Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35s joined two US B-1B Lancers over the Arctic region, on November 1. Archived photo courtesy of Royal Norwegian Air Force