End of era: B-1s replace B-52s at Andersen AFB

  • Published
  • By Air Force Senior Airman Joshua Smoot
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs

Several B-1B Lancers with the 28th Bomb Wing from Ellsworth Air Force Base​, South Dakota, deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Aug. 6 in support of U.S. Pacific Command’s (USPACOM) Continuous Bomber Presence mission. Approximately 300 Airmen from the 28th Bomb Wing will supplement the deployment.

The B-1s last participated in the CBP mission approximately 10 years ago and are returning to support USPACOM in conducting routine, strategic deterrence and regional training missions. Incorporating the B-1 into PACOM operations exercises the Air Force’s ability to integrate a unique capability with regional allies and partners in various parts of the world.

Since 2004, U.S. Air Force bombers such as the B-1, B-52 Stratofortress and B-2 Spirit have been in continuous rotations providing non-stop stability and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Air Force Global Strike Command continues to routinely deploy bombers to Guam, which provides opportunities to strengthen regional alliances and long-standing military-to-military partnerships throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

The B-1 units bring a unique perspective and years of repeated combat and operational experience from the Central Command theater to the Pacific. They will provide a significant rapid global strike capability that enables readiness and commitment to deterrence, offers assurance to the U.S. allies and strengthens regional security and stability in the region. Training in a different part of the world allows the B-1 aircrews the opportunity to integrate with Pacific partners to enhance interoperability and regional cooperation.

“Andersen welcomes the B-1 squadron, and we look forward to working together to provide safety and security to the region, our partners and our allies,” said Brig. Gen. Douglas Cox, 36th Wing commander. “The B-52s did an amazing job the past few years, and we know the B-1s will continue CBP excellence going forward."