B-1B Lancer

For the first time in 10 years, B-1B Lancers will replace the B-52 Stratofortresses in support of U.S. Pacific Command's continuous bomber presence mission. This forward deployed presence demonstrates continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

B-1s to replace B-52s during routine bomber presence rotation

Published Aug. 1, 2016
Headquarters Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) -- The B-1B Lancers are scheduled to deploy to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Aug. 6 for the first time since April 2006 in support of U.S. Pacific Command’s continuous bomber presence mission.

The B-1B’s will replace the B-52 Stratofortresses currently deployed from Minot AFB, North Dakota. This is not the first deployment of B-1Bs in the PACOM area of responsibility; however, it is the first time in 10 years.

With a large weapon capacity and exceptional standoff strike capability, the B-1 will provide PACOM and its regional allies and partners with a credible, strategic power projection platform.

This forward deployed presence demonstrates the continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. The bombers will be accompanied by approximately 300 Airmen from Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota.

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