Bombers Were Conducting Joint Training With Finland

Two of the US military’s B-52H Stratofortress bombers were intercepted by a pair of Russian SU-27 fighters over the Baltic Sea on November 25. The bombers were reportedly conducting a training exercise with forces from NATO ally Finland.

Finland, which shares nearly all of its Eastern border with Russia, departed from its long-standing military neutrality and joined NATO in 2023. This was directly caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The two nations have remained on uneasy terms since, with Finland standing strong in support of Ukraine.

The recent fighter intercept came only four days after Russia launched a hypersonic, intermediate-range missile at Ukraine. This responded to the US and UK’s decision to allow Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, to use Western Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike Russian territory.

The two Stratofortresses belong to a bomber task force deployed to Europe in early November. US Air Forces in Europe commented that they “will train and operate alongside NATO Allies and partners for several weeks demonstrating the U.S. commitment to global security and stability.”

“This bomber task force mission exemplifies our unwavering commitment to our European allies and partners,” stated Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. “Together, we build stronger, more strategic relationships that reinforce security and stability across the region.”

The B-52s had been in the middle of their first simulated weapons drop, alongside Finnish F/A-18C Hornets and Swedish JAS 39 Gripens, near Kaliningrad and the Baltic Sea when Russian forces dropped in to say hello.

Despite the unexpected company, US officials reported, the B-52s decided to remain on their planned course after deeming that the intercept was safe and professional.

The training mission, named Exercise Apex Jet, aimed to teach US and Finnish forces how to efficiently conduct joint operations. This is part of the US’s effort to grow Finland’s defense capability, especially as both its role in NATO and tensions with Russia rise.

FMI: www.usafe.af.mil