U.S. bombers join South Korea in major air drills
On Wednesday, the U.S. deployed B-1B Lancer bombers over the Korean Peninsula, marking the first precision bombing drill in seven years. This military exercise, involving advanced stealth fighters, comes in response to North Korea's recent missile tests, which heightened regional tensions. The drills highlight a unified stance by the U.S., South Korea, and Japan against Pyongyang's provocations.
9:13 AM EDT, June 5, 2024
In a strategic show of force, the United States deployed B-1B Lancer bombers over the Korean Peninsula as part of a joint military exercise with South Korea and Japan. This marked the first precision bombing drill in seven years and comes amid heightened tensions following North Korea's recent missile tests.
US flies B-1B bomber for 1st precision bombing drill in 7 years as tensions simmer with North Korea
North Korea responds with missile launches
The B-1B bombers, capable of carrying significant payloads and executing precision strikes, joined F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters in the drills. This deployment is the 13th time U.S. strategic bombers have flown near the Korean Peninsula this year. The exercises aimed to bolster the allied forces' readiness and demonstrate a united front against North Korean provocations, primarily after Pyongyang tested the Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile, which has the range to reach the U.S. mainland.
In response to these drills, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into its eastern waters. North Korea perceives such military exercises as preparation for an invasion. It has used strong rhetoric, accusing the U.S. and its allies of pushing the region to the brink of nuclear war.
New defense initiatives strengthen alliances
The joint exercises also included the establishment of a real-time missile warning data-sharing system among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, enhancing their coordinated defense capabilities. This move follows commitments made during a trilateral summit at Camp David to strengthen regional security cooperation.
Source: Associated Press, CBS News
