Home  /  Newsroom  /  2021  /  Allied fighter jets escort US B-1s through the Black Sea

RAMSTEIN, Germany – Allied fighters from Denmark, Poland, Canada, and the US escorted US Air Force B-1B bombers from Fairford, UK through Eastern Europe into the Black Sea for joint training on November 6.

The Allied aircraft practiced fighter-bomber escort procedures and bi-lateral communication on the long-range mission flying from the UK to the Black Sea. Then the aircraft conducted a range of simulated offensive strikes and defensive manoeuvres to support flying training objectives and interoperability between Allied aircraft and crews.

Having the ability to move critical assets across the globe and throughout the continent at a moment's notice gives our Alliance the ability to respond and counter threats anywhere, anytime

"Working cooperatively with NATO Allies brings the best out of Allied Airmen," said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, Allied Air Command Commander. "Having the ability to move critical assets across the globe and throughout the continent at a moment's notice gives our Alliance the ability to respond and counter threats anywhere, anytime."

A US B-1B was refueled over the Black Sea by a Turkish KC-135 during a bomber task force mission. Photo courtesy of Turkish Air Force. 

The B-1s also practiced air-to-air refuelling procedures with a Turkish KC-135 while in the Black Sea, further reinforcing interoperability and strengthening the relationship with this Ally in a vital strategic location.

Constant practise between Allied fighters and bombers optimises communications and procedures, which strengthen collective defence and security across these regions.

Bomber Task Force Europe missions give NATO allies the opportunity to employ new methods of tactical-level support while optimizing fighter and bomber integration.