U.S. B-52 Bombers Conduct Live Bombing Drills in Sweden to Mark NATO Anniversary

On Tuesday, two U.S. B-52H Stratofortresses participated in a major military exercise over Sweden as part of the ongoing "Viking Nebula" mission, marking a historic moment in NATO cooperation. The bombers, escorted by Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters, carried out practice drops of live guided bombs at the Vidsel Test Range, located 580 miles north of Stockholm. This was the first live weapons drop by B-52s in Sweden since the country officially joined NATO in 2024.

The bombers released GBU-30 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) during the exercise, showcasing U.S. and Swedish military cooperation. Joint terminal attack controllers (JTACs) from both nations worked on the ground, ensuring precision and coordination between air and ground forces. The exercise is part of NATO's ongoing efforts to strengthen its collective defense and increase interoperability among allied forces.

The B-52s, deployed as part of the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron's Bomber Task Force 25-2, are stationed at RAF Fairford in England. This deployment, which began in February, is part of a broader initiative to train with NATO allies and demonstrate U.S. commitment to European security. The B-52 bombers regularly rotate through Europe, reinforcing NATO's defense posture amid rising tensions in the region, particularly due to Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine.

This exercise also holds particular significance as it comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Europe. Sweden’s decision to join NATO, ending its long-standing neutral stance, reflects the shifting security landscape in Europe, particularly in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The B-52’s mission in Sweden marks an important milestone in NATO's collective defense strategy.

Later in the week, another B-52 from the same task force conducted a low pass over Oslo, Norway, in a show of solidarity with NATO allies. The mission, named "Tower Blockhouse," involved Norwegian F-35 fighter jets escorting the B-52, further cementing the strong military ties between the U.S. and its Scandinavian partners.

With the war in Ukraine continuing into its fourth year, NATO’s readiness and unity have never been more crucial.