This marked the first time B-52 bombers have performed air-to-ground drops in Finnish territory. The exercise was part of a broader collaboration between Finland and the United States, which has included joint training missions in Finnish airspace since July 2024.
The U.S. regularly deploys strategic bombers for Bomber Task Force training with NATO Allies in Europe. These exercises strengthen interoperability and reinforce NATO’s collective defence strategy in the region.
Brigadier General Aki Puustinen, Chief of Staff of Air Force Command Finland, highlighted the significance of the operation. He stated that joint fire missions with U.S. strategic bombers enhance Finland’s defence capabilities and contribute to NATO’s deterrence in Northern Europe.
The primary goal of the exercise was to train Finnish Air Force and Army units in joint fire operations. U.S. Air Force and Finnish Army Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) coordinated the strikes, ensuring they adhered to established safety protocols and operational procedures.
In addition to training missions within Finland, Finnish Hornet fighters have participated in Bomber Task Force operations in Sweden and Estonia in 2025. These efforts underline Finland’s increasing role in NATO’s defence strategy and commitment to military cooperation with Allied forces.
