In the early days of the new year, the United States Air Force (USAF) deployed B-1B Lancer strategic bombers to the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing its presence in the region. These aircraft were escorted by F-2 fighters from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and F-15K fighters from the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) as part of joint exercises aimed at strengthening trilateral military cooperation.

According to available information, the USAF sent two B-1B Lancers, accompanied by four fighter jets from Japan and South Korea, forming a trilateral escort flight. This engagement not only underscored the solid cooperation among the three nations but also addressed regional security challenges affecting the Indo-Pacific.
The Air Force did not specify the home base of the Lancers but noted that such deployments often involve long-range flights from the United States. These missions, known as Bomber Task Force operations, are designed to demonstrate the U.S. capability to respond globally in support of its allies.

This deployment is part of routine exercises conducted by the three countries, highlighting their strong relations and the strategic projection capabilities of U.S. forces in support of key allies in the region. The Indo-Pacific has become an increasingly tense region, not only due to China’s assertive actions near Taiwan and the Philippines but also because of North Korea’s missile launches targeting areas near Japan and South Korea. These developments have driven Asian states to strengthen their alliances with Western nations through military exercises and the acquisition of advanced weapons systems.
In mid-2024, the U.S. Air Force deployed two B-1B Lancer bombers from the 34th Bomb Squadron, which completed a 30-hour mission operating over the Sea of Japan. The operation included collaboration with F-15J fighters from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and F-16 fighters from the U.S. Seventh Air Force stationed in the region.
Lastly, at the end of 2024, another bomber squadron from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas participated in a joint flyover with aircraft from the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF). This operation was part of the 76th anniversary celebrations of the South Korean Armed Forces and highlighted the close military relationship between the two nations.
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