Pilots, maintainers and ground crews operated in a simulated high-pressure environment. They were required to prepare, arm and launch aircraft within compressed timelines.
“This exercise provides a realistic training environment for our Airmen to quickly generate combat power, ensuring that a high-state of readiness and proficiency is sustained,” Whiteman Air Force Base said in a social media statement. “Spirit Vigilance also assures our Allies and partners that we are ready to respond when the Nation calls – anytime, anywhere.”
Spirit Vigilance assessed the wing’s ability to generate large-scale air power with the B-2. It also tested the coordination needed to prepare multiple aircraft for combat missions at short notice.
U.S. Air Force footage showed several B-2s taking part at Whiteman Air Force Base. The aircraft included Spirit of Florida, Spirit of New York, Spirit of Mississippi, Spirit of Oklahoma, Spirit of Alaska and Spirit of Texas.
The B-2 remains a strategic element of U.S. air power and is designed for long-range strike operations. Its range and stealth allow the Air Force to conduct missions against targets thousands of kilometres from the United States.
B-2 bombers recently participated in Operation Midnight Hammer and Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East. Both missions demonstrated the aircraft’s continuing role in major U.S. long-range strike operations.
The U.S. Air Force currently operates 19 B-2 Spirit bombers. Northrop Grumman manufactured the aircraft and continues to support the fleet.
