U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers conduct NATO training mission over Turkey

The bombers were escorted by Turkish F-16 fighter jets before executing inert weapons drops in coordination with Turkish Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs). The training exercise took place approximately 150 miles northwest of Incirlik Air Base, a key U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) facility.

Lt. Col. Joseph Cangealose, commander of the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, highlighted the significance of the operation, stating that conducting joint weapons employment strengthens NATO’s unity. He emphasised that such exercises reinforce the alliance’s collective capability to deter threats and ensure stability in the region.

BTF missions are designed to enhance interoperability between NATO members, improving operational coordination and demonstrating collective defence readiness. These missions also serve as a visible demonstration of NATO’s resolve and commitment to global security.

Capt. Aaron Gurley, a BTF planner for USAFE, reaffirmed the strategic intent behind such operations, stressing the importance of sustained collaboration with NATO allies. He reiterated that these missions are essential to maintaining deterrence, particularly in the face of potential Russian aggression.

SPARTAN SWORD is part of a series of combined training operations scheduled during the current BTF deployment in Europe. The ongoing exercises underscore NATO’s preparedness and its commitment to strengthening defensive capabilities across the alliance.