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World Defense & Security News - United States
 
 
Three B-2 strategic bombers deployed to Andersen AFB
 
The U.S. Air Force dispatched three B-2 Spirit strategic bombers assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Baseto the Andersen AFB where B-1B Lancer supersonic bombers are stationed, its military announced on January 8, 2018.
     
Three B 2 strategic bombers deployed to Andersen AFB 640 001A B-2 Spirit, assigned to the 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base, taxis on the flightline Jan. 8, 2018, at Andersen Air Force Base(AFB), Guam
(Credit: U.S. Air Force/Staff Sgt. Joshua Smoot)
     
The US military did not disclose how long the bombers will stay in Guam, a strategically important island for the U.S. military amid North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.

Approximately 200 Airmen and three B-2 Spirits from Whiteman AFB, Missouri, deployed to Andersen AFB in support of U.S. Pacific Command’s (PACOM) Bomber Assurance and Deterrence mission.

U.S. Strategic Command bombers regularly rotate through the Indo-Pacific region to conduct U.S. PACOM-led air operations, providing leaders with deterrent options to maintain regional stability.

"During this short-term deployment, the B-2s will conduct local and regional training sorties and will integrate capabilities with key regional partners, ensuring bomber crews maintain a high state of readiness and crew proficiency," the US Pacific Air Force press office said.

The U.S. flew B-1B bombers from Guam over Korea last year in response to the North's provocations.