U.S. B-52 Stratofortress bombers and Italian Eurofighters enhance joint operations in SPARTAN MACE

By Defence Industry Europe

The United States and Italy have reinforced their military cooperation through the SPARTAN MACE Bomber Task Force (BTF) 25-2 mission. On 7 March, two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers integrated with two Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons and Italian ground forces to enhance their joint operational capabilities.
A Eurofighter Typhoon flies alongside a B-52H Stratofortress aircraft during bomber task force mission SPARTAN MACE March 7. Bomber Task Force missions like SPARTAN MACE demonstrate the ability to integrate seamlessly with mission partners, strengthening readiness and lethality. Photo: U.S. Air Force.

The United States and Italy have reinforced their military cooperation through the SPARTAN MACE Bomber Task Force (BTF) 25-2 mission. On 7 March, two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers integrated with two Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons and Italian ground forces to enhance their joint operational capabilities.

 

Escorted by the Eurofighter jets, the B-52s entered an Italian military range near Sardinia Island, where they conducted simulated live bomb drops. Italian Joint Terminal Attack Controllers provided guidance, ensuring seamless coordination between air and ground units.

The exercise aimed to refine close-air support interoperability and precision strike capabilities in a complex training environment. By working closely together, U.S. and Italian forces demonstrated their ability to operate effectively in a high-intensity combat scenario.

 

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The B-52s and their aircrew are currently stationed at RAF Fairford, England, as part of the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron. Their deployment supports NATO’s collective readiness, reinforcing security partnerships across the region.

SPARTAN MACE marks the tenth operation under the current BTF 25-2 initiative, further solidifying transatlantic defence cooperation. The mission highlights the strategic value of integrating American and European airpower to ensure stability and deterrence in the region.

 

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