B-1B Lancer strategic bombers flew three missions in eight days in the Middle East
US forces in the Middle East have been attacked dozens of times this autumn. Against this background, B-1B Lancer strategic bombers have been flying in the region.
Here's What We Know
In eight days, American supersonic aircraft performed three missions at once in the area of responsibility of the Central Command of the US Armed Forces. The US Air Force said the first flight, which will take place on 5 November, was planned in advance.
On November 8, 2023, and for the second time in three days, a U.S. B-1 Lancer conducted a mission over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. U.S. F-16s escorted the bomber. pic.twitter.com/VsXYPyEWsZ
- U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) November 8, 2023
For the third time in eight days, B-1 Lancers conducted missions in the USCENTCOM area of responsibility demonstrating the ability to rapidly project combat power. pic.twitter.com/uRk5qRYVfC
- U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) November 13, 2023
The bombers arrived in the region a second time three days later. They flew escorted by fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters. Judging by the photo, the aircraft belong to the 138th Fighter Wing of the Oklahoma Air National Guard.
The third B-1B Lancer flight in the Middle East took place earlier this week. The supersonic strategic bomber was refuelled in the air using a KC-135 tanker, which belongs to the Ohio Air National Guard.
Central Command declined to elaborate on the details of the flights. But it's worth noting that it's been years since bombers have flown three missions at once in such a short period of time in CENTOM's area of responsibility.
Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine
