Yesterday, a pair of USAF Rockwell B-1B, taking off from RAF Fairford, conducted a low-level pass over Sarajevo.
“Today we recognize the enduring bond between the United States and Bosnia Herzegovina,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa, and NATO Allied Air Command., as well as NATO Allied Air Command. “This flyover demonstrated our commitment to nurturing strong diplomatic relations and stood as a testament to our shared values and common objectives. Through cooperation and understanding, we are paving the way for a future of peace, security, and prosperity in the region.”
The flyby occurred over Sarajevo, Bosnia, following key leader engagements in the city. However, it is important to note that this mission had been planned several days in advance and is unrelated to the recent events in Kosovo.
The B-1Bs are currently operating out of RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom for the latest Bomber Task Force iteration. Bomber Task Force missions enable Airmen to conduct operations worldwide at a moment’s notice, contributing to the maintenance of global stability and security while allowing units to gain familiarity with operations in various regions.
The B-1B Lancer, a long-range heavy bomber, possesses the ability to carry the largest conventional payload of guided and unguided weapons in the Air Force arsenal. As a multi-mission aircraft, the B-1 serves as the backbone of America’s long-range bomber force. It can rapidly deploy substantial quantities of precision and non-precision weapons against any adversary, anywhere in the world, at any given time.