B-52s touchdown in Diego Garcia

A B-52 Stratofortress assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, prepares to land at Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia in support of a Bomber Task Force mission, March 22, 2024. BTF missions enable crews to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and validate our always-ready global strike capability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Staci Kasischke)

B-52s touchdown in Diego Garcia

Two B-52 Stratofortresses assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, arrive at Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia in support of a Bomber Task Force mission, March 22, 2024. BTF missions enable crews to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and validate our always-ready global strike capability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Staci Kasischke)

B-52s touchdown in Diego Garcia

B-52s arrive in Diego Garcia for Bomber Task Force

Published March 22, 2024
Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

DIEGO GARCIA NAVAL SUPPORT FACILITY, British Indian Ocean Territory -- Two B-52 Stratofortress bombers assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, landed at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, Mar. 22.

This deployment aims to enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe, demonstrating the credibility of our forces to address a global security environment that is more diverse and uncertain than at any other time in recent history.

“Bomber task force missions showcase our capability for rapid deployment in support of the combatant commander’s objectives," said Maj. Joshua Dawkins, 96th Bomb Squadron director of operations.

"Operating and training in theater enables our crews to maintain proficiency and readiness, while also demonstrating our commitment to our Allies and partners." Maj Joshua Dawkins

B-52s touchdown in Diego Garcia

Airmen assigned to the 96th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, work on a B-52 Stratofortress at Navy Support Facility, Diego Garcia in support of a Bomber Task Force mission, March 22, 2024. The U.S. routinely and visibly demonstrates commitment to our allies and partners through the global employment of our military forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Staci Kasischke)

Throughout this deployment, the B-52s will integrate alongside Allies and partners throughout the region to demonstrate and strengthen a shared commitment to security and stability in the Pacific region.

The direct flight from Barksdale AFB to Diego Garcia lasted approximately 30 hours and demonstrates the B-52’s strategic flexibility and global reach.

SLIDESHOW | images | B-52s touchdown in Diego Garcia

Strategically located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Diego Garcia provides a key platform for U.S. military operations, enabling rapid response capabilities across the vast Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. will continue to maintain a strong, credible strategic bomber force that stands at a high state of readiness and proficiency, and validates our always-ready, global strike capability.