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On April 15, 2024, two U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers executed a planned training mission from Morón Air Base, Spain, to Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, as part of Bomber Task Force 24-2. This routine exercise aimed at enhancing operational readiness and interoperability between U.S. and Turkish military forces.

The integration of the U.S. aircraft with Turkish fighter jets during the mission underscores the commitment to joint training and collaboration between the two nations. Col. Kevin Lord, the 39th Air Base Wing Commander, expressed gratitude to Turkish hosts for facilitating the training opportunity and their continuous support to the Incirlik community.

Officials from U.S. European Command, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, and the 39th Air Base Wing highlighted the significance of partnerships with the Turkish Ministry of Defense in fostering cooperation and strengthening regional security.

Bomber Task Force 24-2 forms part of the broader Large Scale Global Exercise 2024, encompassing various exercises and military activities across combatant commands. This initiative enables U.S. forces to engage with Allies and partners, enhancing mutual understanding, trust, and interoperability on security challenges.

Throughout the BTF 24-2 deployment, the bombers and supporting personnel will undertake a series of missions to train alongside Allies and partners. The U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA) emphasizes dynamic force employment in the European theater, providing strategic predictability and assurance to Allies and partners while contributing to deterrence by introducing operational unpredictability for potential adversaries.

Such routine engagements serve to reinforce the shared commitment to regional security and stability, reflecting the ongoing efforts of both U.S. and Turkish forces in promoting cooperation and readiness in the face of evolving security dynamics.