ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Since their arrival in October, the 96th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron has been operating out of Andersen Air Force Base in Guam for their Bomber Task Force deployment.
As part of their BTF mission, they’ve accomplished several goals, including forging critical partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, and showcase Pacific Air Force’s ability to deter, deny, and dominate any influence or aggression from adversaries or competitors.
With a dedicated force of over 215 Airmen from around the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility and four B-52H Stratofortresses from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, this Bomber Task Force conducted 30 sorties during their Indo-Pacific deployment.
While in theater, they seamlessly integrated with Allied and partner aircraft, holding the first-ever trilateral integration with Japan, and the Republic of Korea. A majority of their efforts was to enhance collaboration between the Air Force and Navy, with a special emphasis on maritime warfare.
Maj. Josh Dawkins, Director of Operations for the 96th BS, highlighted the successful outcomes achieved in the Indo-Pacific through robust partnerships and cooperative ventures with Allied nations. He underscored, "Our mission effectively showcased our readiness to ensure freedom of movement in the global commons and demonstrated continued dedication to our regional partners.”
As they make their way back to their home unit, the Bomber Task Force exemplified the bomber force's ability to achieve success through collective effort, encompassing international military exercises, inter-service coordination, and united total-force initiatives.