B-2s conduct deployment to Indo-Asia-Pacific

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. (AFNS) -- Three B-2 Spirits deployed from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, to the U.S. Pacific Command area of operations March 8.

While in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, the B-2s will integrate and conduct training with ally and partner air forces, and conduct a radio communications check with a U.S. air operations center.

This deployment will ensure bomber crews maintain a high state of readiness and crew proficiency, and will provide opportunities to integrate capabilities with key regional partners.

“These flights ensure we remain ready to deter strategic attack, now and into the future, and are one of the many ways the U.S. demonstrates its commitment to security and stability across the globe,” said Adm. Cecil D. Haney, U.S. Strategic Command commander. “Additionally, these efforts provide invaluable opportunities to build relationships and interoperability between the U.S. and ally and partner forces.”

“Strategic bomber deployments ensure our ability to project power at a time and place of our choosing and develop strong interoperability with our regional allies and partners,” said Gen. Lori J. Robinson, Pacific Air Forces commander. “Recent events demonstrate the continued need to provide consistent and credible air power throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Our ability to demonstrate credible combat power while training and interoperating with our network of like-minded partner nations is vitally important.”

U.S. Strategic Command routinely demonstrates its capability to command, control and conduct global bomber missions, most recently by deploying B-52 Stratofortresses into the U.S. European Command area of responsibility earlier this month.

USSTRATCOM bombers regularly rotate through the Indo-Asia-Pacific to conduct USPACOM-led air operations, providing leaders with deterrent options to maintain regional stability.

One of nine Defense Department unified combatant commands, USSTRATCOM has global strategic missions, assigned through the Unified Command Plan, which include strategic deterrence; space operations; cyberspace operations; joint electronic warfare; global strike; missile defense; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; combating weapons of mass destruction; and analysis and targeting.

B-1 Bombers Shifting to Strike Command

According to a recent AP item B-1 bombers from Ellsworth AFB and Dyess AFB are joining their long-range B-2 and B-52 bomber counterparts under a single Air Force command.

The Air Force is grouping its bombers under Air Force Global Strike Command, a nuclear-capable command based at Barksdale AFB, in a transition that will be effective Oct. 1 of this year. This leadership change also puts the Air Force's next-generation bomber program, frequently called the Long Range Strike Bomber, under the same auspices.

More than 60 aircraft and about 7,000 people will shift from Air Combat Command to Global Strike Command, according to the Air Force.

South Dakota U.S. Sen. John Thune said in a statement said that moving all the bomber wings under the control of Global Strike Command will make for a better transition as the Air Force plans for the Long Range Strike Bomber.

The B-1 bombers from Ellsworth and Dyess will join B-52 bombers from Minot AFB, among others, as part of Global Strike Command. The Air Force said the leadership change is expected to be "imperceptible" to most of the airmen on the bases.

"Consolidating all of our Air Force assets in this critical mission area under a single command will help provide a unified voice to maintain the high standards necessary in stewardship of our nation's bomber forces," Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James said in a statement.

2015 Rose Bowl Flyover

Really there is nothing else to say.

"Spirit of Washington" rises from the ashes

The “Spirit of Washington” lands at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., Dec. 16, 2013. The B-2 Spirit participated in its first training mission here after an engine fire in 2010 badly damaged the aircraft. The “Spirit of Washington” was preparing to fly a mission at Anderson Air Force Base, Guam, when one of its four engines caught fire. After nearly four years, the aircraft was restored to full mission-ready status. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexandra M. Boutte/Released)

Blog Editor Note: This is a story about B-2A Serial 88-0332 attached to the 509BW/393BS .

by Candy Knight,  509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Like the mythical Phoenix, the "Spirit of Washington" has risen from the ashes, ready to strike anywhere, anytime.

The "Spirit of Washington" participated in its first training mission at Whiteman Air Force Base, Dec. 16, after an engine fire in 2010 nearly destroyed the aircraft.

After three years and nine months in maintenance, the aircraft was restored to full mission-ready status.

The behind-the-scenes story is an extraordinary tale of cooperation and teamwork between different Air Force organizations, as well as collaboration between the Air Force and Northrop Grumman, the Air Force's B-2 prime contractor.

"We recognize how much this means to the warfighter, to have this aircraft back in your hands," said David G. Mazur, vice president of long-range strike operations for Northrop Grumman.

The "Spirit of Washington" was preparing to fly a mission Feb. 26, 2010 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, when one of its four engines caught fire, resulting in significant damage to the aircraft and the engine bay.

With only 20 B-2s in the Air Force inventory, the need to save and restore the aircraft was paramount; the challenge was finding a way to accomplish the task.

The B-2's technology, combined with the limited number of aircraft, made obtaining replacement parts challenging. A percentage of the parts could be remanufactured, but other parts could only be obtained from Air Force spare parts depots.

"One of the things that was most important to both the Air Force and Northrop was that the jet be returned to us without any flying or weapons delivery limitations. So far, it has been taking care of business perfectly," said Col. Chase McCown, 509th Bomb Wing Maintenance Group commander.

Perhaps the greatest challenge was making the necessary repairs to fly the aircraft from Guam to the

Palmdale facility at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
"The goal was to get [aircraft] 0332 to the Palmdale facility before the beginning of FY12, a goal which was accomplished two months ahead of schedule," Mazur said.

Getting the aircraft to Palmdale ahead of schedule saved money, and more importantly, it allowed the Air Force and other organizations to conduct initial tests on not only the engine itself, but also the other components of the aircraft.

Ultimately, the extra time to conduct these additional tests helped investigators determine the root cause of the engine fire, which is rare in accident investigations, as incidents like this one are typically caused by a number of factors, Mazur said.

Despite the less-than-ideal circumstances, the situation presented an opportunity for Airmen to develop best practices and come up with innovative ways for approaching maintenance issues.

One example of a best practice was using dry ice pellets to remove charcoal from the aircraft's skin. The team would spray pelletized dry ice on the aircraft, after which the ice would melt, leaving no additional residue or material for the maintainers to clean up.

"To my knowledge, this was the first time this technique had been used," Mazur said.

The hard work of both the Air Force and her partners enabled Team Whiteman to bring another B-2 back into the fold, further buttressing the United States' ability to deliver conventional and nuclear munitions, penetrate air defenses and threaten effective retaliation.

"Because of the B-2's importance to national security, we wanted to do everything we could to save it," Mazur said. "Everyone recognized this importance and everyone brought their 'A' team. It took longer than expected, but the aircraft is back and better than before. Hoo-Rah."

"It was absolutely a whole team effort," said McCown. "Anything that happens on this weapon system is a partnership between Northrop and the Air Force. The complex repairs required for this aircraft would not have happened without that healthy relationship."
For the Airmen in charge of maintaining the "Spirit of Washington," there is nothing more gratifying than watching their aircraft take to the skies once again.

"It gives me a strong sense of pride to know that an aircraft that I am personally responsible for has returned to home station and is ready to answer our nation's call," Senior Airman Patrick Holter, dedicated crew chief for the "Spirit of Washington." "This is my first jet as a dedicated crew chief and knowing that the maintenance my team and I performed on our aircraft directly contributed to safe, effective, on-time sorties is what I love most about my job."

"It was a very cool experience to see the excitement in the maintainers when an aircraft many of them thought would never fly again returned to service as part of the 509th Bomb Wing," McCown said.

B-2 Spirits take to Whiteman skies

 A B-2 Spirit taxis down the ramp at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., Nov. 3, 2013. During Operation Allied Force in 1999, the B-2s flew less than 1 percent of the combat sorties but dropped 11 percent of the total bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Keenan Berry/Released)

USAF B-2A Atlantic Round Robin Update

In an earlier post to this blog: USAF B-2A Conducted an Atlantic Round Robin on 13 Sep , I mentioned the intercept by Topol-M on a B-2 Round Robin exercise conducted on 13 Sep. Some additional information on that exercise has now been psoted on the Planesandstuff blog. Very interesting read for sure.

Upgrading comms in the year of the B-2

A B-2 Spirit flies to the North Pole Oct. 27, 2011, on a test mission from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. The polar flight helped ensure that the B-2 maintains its global combat power capability in all environments with new computers for future growth and sustained contributions to the greater Air Force mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Bobbi Zapka)

by Airman 1st Class Joseph Raatz,  Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La.  -- After a 20-year wait, the B-2 Spirit will receive a significant new communications upgrade.

The first increment of the Common Very Low Frequency Receiver, or CVR, program was designed to be a successor to the very low frequency communication system originally slated to be included with the B-2's communication package. The original system was deferred in 1992 because of budget constraints.

"CVR Increment 1 will provide the B-2 aircrew another, more reliable means to receive Presidential force direction via Emergency Action Messages," Gary Doolittle, Air Force Global Strike Command B-2 requirements, said.

Currently, the B-2 uses an ultra-high frequency communications system to fill that role. However, the Military Strategic Tactical and Relay (MILSTAR) satellites that facilitate that form of communication are approaching the end of their operational life, Doolittle said.

The upgraded communication system would allow the B-2 to receive VLF signals bounced off of lower levels of the atmosphere, bypassing the satellite relay. This would ensure the B-2 remains a viable nuclear platform until such time as a replacement for current satellite communications can be deployed.

The CVR Increment 1 program reached its Milestone B on July 23, which authorized the program to enter the Engineering and Manufacturing Development Phase and award EMD contracts. During this phase, the program will develop the VLF communications system, complete full system integration and test on the B-2, develop an affordable and executable manufacturing process and ensure operational supportability, Doolittle said.

Though CVR Increment 1 is designed purely for use on the B-2 Spirit, a proposed second increment would expand the system into other platforms such as the B-52 Stratofortress and the E-4B, Doolittle said.

"Increment 2 would provide a broader set of longer-term capability upgrades across the entire airborne Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications fleet," he said, adding that Increment 2 requirements and acquisition strategies are currently in development.

With CVR Increment 1 now reaching Milestone B, the program is on-track to begin fielding in 2017. The capabilities it brings will help ensure the B-2 will continue to be a premier weapon system far into the foreseeable future.

131st BW makes history as first ANG bomb wing certified for nuclear operations

During early morning operations, 131st Bomb Wing Missouri Air National Guard mantainers service a B-2 Stealth at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Robert Trubia/RELEASED)

by Capt. Rachel Savage,  131st Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN Air Force Base, Mo -- The Air National Guard celebrated a historic milestone this week as the 131st Bomb Wing, the nation's only Guard unit to fly and maintain the B-2 Spirit, was certified to conduct the nuclear mission upon completion of their Initial Nuclear Surety Inspection.

With this certification, the 131st BW reached full operational capability with the B-2, bringing to conclusion a six-year journey that began with the unit's transition from the F-15 Eagle mission in 2007, said Maj. Gen. Steve Danner, Adjutant General of Missouri.

"The Airmen of the 131st Bomb Wing have proven they are up to the task in carrying out this critical national security mission," Danner said. "This confirmation is the result of years of hard work and the commencement of a new chapter in Air National Guard history. The 131st Bomb Wing is officially open for business - Col. Michael Francis and his team should be proud."

This momentous event marks the first time in the history of the Guard that a bomb wing has been certified in the delivery of nuclear weapons.

"The 131st Citizen-Airmen have proven they can exceed every stringent challenge posed in the nuclear realm," said Francis, the 131st Bomb Wing commander. "Their countless hours have deservingly evolved in to this success and I couldn't be more proud."

The four-day inspection consisted of assessments in key areas, and graded the wing's ability to be caretakers of an unrivaled combat power.

"The result of the inspection validates the wing's ability to carry out the nuclear mission, which requires adherence to the strictest standards" said Henry Jenkins, Air Force Global Strike Command Inspector General Team chief.

As part of the Air Force's Total Force Integration initiative to combine active duty with Guard Airmen, the two wings were integrated in 2007 when the 131st received its new operational mission. The unit became a classic associate with the active duty's 509th Bomb Wing, enabling the 131st to become the first-ever Guard unit to fly the B-2.

The integration efforts began seven years ago on Feb. 27, 2006, when the Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff of the Air Force approved Total Force Initiative Phase II, which directed the creation of a Classic Association with the 509th and the 131st.

In 2008, the wing had fewer than 60 members stationed at Whiteman when they conducted the first all guard B-2 sortie, which included both the launch and operation of the aircraft. Today, nearly all 800 members are based at Whiteman, with completely integrated maintenance crews and almost three times the number of qualified pilots.

"The Airmen of the 509th Bomb Wing and the 131st Bomb Wing are physically and functionally integrated at every level," said Brig. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, 509th Bomb Wing commander. "When you walk on the flight line at Whiteman, you can't tell the difference between an active-duty or Guard pilot, maintainer, or load crew team. This certification was the last remaining event to align our mission capabilities and we are honored to be defending this great nation with the warriors of the Missouri Air National Guard!"

The first combat total force integration mission the wings conducted came in March 2011 when three B-2s flew over Libya, dropping 45 Joint Direct Attack Munitions to destroy hardened aircraft shelters, crippling Muammar Gaddafi's air forces and helping enforce the United Nations' no-fly zone.

The six aircrew members who flew that mission included both active duty and Guard pilots, demonstrating success in the first real-world combat mission the B-2 conducted since Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

"Our certification is a culmination of years of long hours and concentrated effort coupled with each Airman's determination to go above and beyond every day," said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Carney, 131st Bomb Wing command chief. "It was no easy feat logistically to move the wing and take on a new mission, especially one as demanding as the no-fail nuclear mission...but we did it."

In 2008, the 131st Bomb Wing achieved another major milestone by completing the first B-2 sortie flown and launched by Missouri Air National Guard personnel from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo, June 18. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jessica Snow/RELEASED)

Answering the call: refueling the Spirit

A B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber approaches the rear of a KC-135 Stratotanker in preparation to refuel during a training mission over Midwestern skies, Aug. 1, 2013. The B-2’s unique design has enabled it to travel into enemy territory without being detected by their radar to deploy ordinance. It is one of many aircraft McConnell’s tankers provide fuel to. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier)

McConnell Air Force Base is the world’s largest Air Refueling Wing and is the home of 62 KC-135 Stratotankers. McConnell’s primary mission is to provide global reach by conducting air refueling and airlift where and when needed. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier)

Bolstering Spirits in the Year of the B-2

by Airman 1st Class Joseph Raatz,  Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The Air Force's fleet of B-2 Spirit multi-role bombers will receive defensive system upgrades that will further increase the survivability and effectiveness of the aircraft.

The Defensive Management System Modernization program, or DMS-M, will upgrade or replace the Electronic Support Measure suite, passive antennas and display processors, as well as address sustainability concerns.

"The new antennas are going to increase the frequency coverage," said William Keen, B-2 deputy program element monitor and program analyst.

This increased coverage will provide the B-2 with greater threat detection and identification capabilities, Keen said.

Greater ability to detect and identify potential threats will aid in keeping the aircrew and aircraft safe.

The antenna arrays included in the DMS-M will be coupled with new avionics graphics processors, give the pilots a visual display of the information provided by the antennas.

According to Keen, the current processors will not be able to meet the performance needs of the new antenna system, so they must be replaced.

"The graphics processors allow the visual display to cue the pilots to react to threats," said Master Sgt. Domnick Janitell, B-2 command avionics manager. "The new threats we face today are more complex and the new receiver processors will be able to analyze those more complex signals."

The DMS-M will also remedy the sustainability concerns of the B-2.

"The currently fielded system has a lot of sustainment issues," Keen said. "We need more spare parts and we need better repair capabilities."

The B-2 uses line replaceable units, or LRUs, which are modular components that are designed to be quickly repaired or replaced at an operating location. However, many of these LRUs have been consumed over the life of the aircraft.

Janitell added that there are 20 year-old components used in the platform that are no longer able to be repaired.

"We just don't have the parts we need," Keen said.

The upgrades covered by DMS-M aim to address these sustainability issues in part by streamlining the LRUs from a current total of 23 to 15 new, more capable versions. This reorganization may make repairs easier and less time consuming for maintenance crews.

Once completed, the DMS-M program will provide the Joint Force Commander and the B-2 fleet with advanced situational awareness, improved supportability, enhanced lethality, increased platform survivability and networked battlespace awareness.

Under the project's current timeline, a contract is projected to be awarded in mid-2014, Keen said. The DMS-M program will then enter a phase known as Engineering and Manufacturing Development wherein the components will be required to meet certain standards before going into full production.

The B-2 Spirit is considered one of the world's most advanced and formidable aircraft. Projects such as DMS-M keep the B-2 viable as THE platform that ensures no adversary can find safe haven anywhere, Keen said.

Taking off!

A B-2 Spirit from the 509th Bomb Wing lifts off of the runway as part of a training mission at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., July 9, 2013. The B-2 brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nick Wilson/Released)

An A-10 Thunderbolt from the 442nd Fighter Wing takes off of the runway during a training sortie at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., July 9, 2013. The A-10 Thunderbolt IIs are the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nick Wilson/Released)

North Korea Rockets 'Ready To Hit US Bases'

The US uses B-2 bombers as a 'deterrence' measure in the region. (Photo courtesy of USAF)

Report from the UK SkyNews

 

Kim Jong-Un reportedly tells generals to prepare for an attack on US bases after a show of force by American bombers.
The country's KCNA news agency said Kim Jong-Un had signed off on the order to train sights on American bases in South Korea and the Pacific after a midnight meeting with top generals.
The move was followed by reports of increased activity at North Korea's mid to long-range missile sites, according to South Korea's Yonhap news agency.

It comes after two American B-2 stealth bombers flew over South Korea in a show of force to Pyongyang, following an escalation of rhetoric from the North's young leader. Both China and Russia have appealed for calm.

The two nuclear-capable B-2 planes flew a 13,000-mile round trip from an air base in Missouri, dropping a dummy bomb on a target range in the South.

The planes were taking part in a joint South Korea-US military exercise that has inflamed tensions with Pyongyang, which earlier this month threatened to unleash an "all-out war" backed by nuclear weapons.

"This .... demonstrates the United States' ability to conduct long range, precision strikes quickly and at will," the US military said in a statement.

"The B-2 bomber is an important element of America's enduring and robust extended deterrence capability in the Asia-Pacific region."
]
KCNA reported that Mr Kim had "judged the time has come to settle accounts with the US imperialists in view of the prevailing situation".

The agency said: "He finally signed the plan on technical preparations of strategic rockets of the KPA, ordering them to be on standby for fire so that they may strike any time the US mainland, its military bases in the operational theatres in the Pacific, including Hawaii and Guam, and those in South Korea."

Following their leader's call to arms, thousands of North Koreans turned out for a mass rally in the main square in the capital.

Chanting "Death to the US imperialists" and "Sweep away the US aggressors," soldiers and students marched through Kim Il-Sung Square during the 90-minute rally.

The US has denied its military exercise was provocative but said it was "committed to a pathway to peace" and "prepared to deal with any eventuality" in the region.

Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel and General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the B-2 bombers were a message intended more for allies than Pyongyang.

Air Force modernization takes B-2 to North Pole

by Kate Blais, 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- Taking off from the flightline here Oct. 27, a B-2 Spirit travelled to the top of the world and back again on a mission to test the aircraft's hardware and software upgrades, endurance and performance at extremely high latitudes.

The more than 18-hour mission to the North Pole and back to Edwards AFB consisted of developmental and operational test points to prove that the B-2's software upgrade works well and is able to operate anywhere in the world.

Although the B-2 has been to the North Pole in simulated tests, this is the first time the aircraft has physically travelled there, making this a milestone in B-2 testing.

"A goal of the test force is to prevent a situation where an aircraft experiences an anomaly with a new system for the first time in an operational mission," said Lt. Col. Hans Miller, the 419th Flight Test Squadron commander. "This flight to the North Pole could reveal data and lessons that were not seen in a lab or simulated environment."

"This is the first time the B-2 has operated at this extreme of a latitude before and (I believe) the longest flight so far for this hardware and this software," said Maj. Michael Deaver, the 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron's B-2 Extremely High Frequency Test director. "Being a global bomber, it may be required to operate at extreme latitudes, if not where the target is, but possibly for the flight path it'll take to get there."

The mission worked to verify that the software upgrades -- which include new communication and new navigation equipment -- still allows the B-2 to operate effectively anywhere in the world.

"The main objective of this mission is to look at how the software and hardware works over a long duration (of time)," said 1st Lt. Derek Moore, a 419th Flight Test Squadron test conductor. "We try to push the limits of the aircraft and come back and make sure that operationally it can still meet objectives."

The operational portion of this mission consisted of releasing four unguided BDU-38 bombs over the Precision Impact Range Area at Edwards AFB after more than 18 hours of flight. According to Deaver, one of the biggest objectives was to make sure that the aircraft knew where it was and that it could get to a weapons release point.

To get to that point, extensive coordination throughout the 419th FLTS, Bomber Combined Task Force and other Edwards AFB assets, as well as outside support including the Department of State, was necessary for a successful mission.

"Support from the Air Force Flight Test Center allowed us to use the Speckled Trout (412th Flight Test Squadron) as a resource, which served as an airborne control room and communication hub," said Jeremiah Farinella, a 419th FLTS test conductor and operations engineer. "That allowed us to troubleshoot some issues that we saw when we were airborne and provided us communication back to Edwards, which was essential to our success and allowed the pilots to stay focused on the mission."

Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., provided a KC-135 tanker aircraft for aerial refueling support. The tanker refueled the B-2 over Alberta, Canada, to ensure that the B-2 could complete the endurance portion of the mission to the North Pole and then back to Edwards, said Farinella.

The B-2 was further supported with fuel from a second KC-135 from Edwards AFB in the R-2508 Isabella Aerial Refueling Track, which helped ensure that the B-2 could complete the operational portion of the Polar mission.

"We had an incredible team that went with us, lessened our workload greatly, and contributed to the fact that we were able to get up there and back safely," said Maj. Andrew Murphy, a 419th FLTS B-2 experimental test pilot. "(The team) really lowered the risk of the mission for us."

Flight testing helps find problems early on so that they can be fixed before aircraft end up in the field, continued Murphy.

"The warfighter needs to know where they can and can't go," said Murphy. "Essentially, we've proven the fact that they can get up into those (high) latitudes safely and effectively. That previously was a question mark."

"The trained team of aircrew, engineers, technicians, (and) program managers from government and the contractor will take data from the flight to sustain the capability of the B-2 in all regions of the globe," said Miller.

"Given that we are developmental test, we have an early stake at finding deficiencies," said Cheryl Caluya, a 775th Test Squadron EHF project engineer. "We're making sure that the B-2 is still capable of what it could do yesterday."

At Edwards AFB, ensuring that the B-2 maintains its legacy capabilities contributes to the greater Air Force mission.

"It's a very good cross-check to ensure that we maintain global vigilance and can strike any target in the world at any time, providing overall global combat power," Farinella said.

B-2s arrive at Andersen

A B-2 Spirit from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., gets airborne while another B-2 waits for clearance March 4, 2010, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. More than 270 Airmen and four B-2 Spirits are deployed to Andersen AFB supporting the Pacific regions continuous bomber presence. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Kevin J. Gruenwald)

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (AFNS) -- More than 240 Airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., arrived here in late February to support the deployment of B-2 Spirits as part of the continuous bomber presence here.

The Airmen and aircraft replaced the servicemembers and the B-52 Stratofortresses deployed here from Barksdale AFB, La.

Andersen AFB has had bombers present on its runway since 2004, the year the continuous bomber presence mission began.

The B-2's stealth characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued and heavily defended targets. The bomber's capability to penetrate air defenses and threaten effective retaliation provides a strong effective deterrent and combat force well into the 21st century.

The B-2s join forces with F-22 Raptors deployed from the 90th Fighter Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, as part of the theater security package. The tandem of premier airframes creates a formidable alliance supporting Andersen AFB's mission within the Pacific region. This is the second pairing of these airframes for this mission.

Air Force Global Strike Command gains three bomber bases

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Air Force Global Strike Command assumed responsibility for all long-range, nuclear-capable bombers Feb. 1 as its commander commemorated the occasion by visiting the Air Force's three bomber units, in three different states, on the same day.

"We're a new command, a command for the 21st Century," said Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz, commander of a force that now numbers nearly 23,000 people responsible for 450 intercontinental ballistic missiles and 96 nuclear-capable bombers.

Completing what he called a "very methodical, step-by-step" transition, the general told Airmen at each location that bringing the nuclear-capable bombers over from Air Combat Command into the new command that already controls ICBMs is a step that continues to strengthen the Air Force's 'nuclear enterprise.' Joining the command were the 20 stealth B-2 Spirits in Missouri, and the 76 remaining B-52 Stratofortresses stationed at bomber wings in Louisiana and North Dakota. Air Force Global Strike Command gained the ICBMs on Dec. 1.

"Global strike and nuclear deterrence are the heart-and-soul of what the Air Force does," the general said, emphasizing the importance of the command's mission of deterring potential enemies while assuring allies.

After addressing hundreds of Airmen in a 7:30 a.m. gathering Feb. 1 at Barksdale, one of the two B-52 units in the Air Force, General Klotz took off for Minot AFB, N.D., along with the 8th Air Force commander, Maj. Gen. Floyd Carpenter, and Chief Master Sgt. Jack Johnson, Jr., the AFGSC command chief. Eighth Air Force runs daily operations and planning for the B-2 and B-52 units.

At Minot General Klotz met hundreds more Airmen who support B-52 operations there. He also had lunch with local civic leaders, met with reporters and talked with the unit's senior leaders.

A few hours later, General Klotz headed to Whiteman AFB, Mo., home of the B-2, for similar activities, interacting with Airmen and community leaders, as well as the base's senior leaders.

"Last April, President Obama said in a speech in Prague in the Czech Republic that as long as nuclear weapons exist in the world, we will have a safe, secure and effective arsenal to deter attacks against the United States and to guarantee that same defense to our allies," the general said. "Those are our marching orders."

The general said it's been 27 years since Air Force officials created a brand-new major command, giving Air Force Global Strike Command a "golden opportunity."

"We have a great opportunity, ladies and gentlemen ... to get it absolutely right and to be a model command, a model for the rest of the Air Force."

Air Force Global Strike Command gains three bomber bases

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Air Force Global Strike Command assumed responsibility for all long-range, nuclear-capable bombers Feb. 1 as its commander commemorated the occasion by visiting the Air Force's three bomber units, in three different states, on the same day.

"We're a new command, a command for the 21st Century," said Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz, commander of a force that now numbers nearly 23,000 people responsible for 450 intercontinental ballistic missiles and 96 nuclear-capable bombers.

Completing what he called a "very methodical, step-by-step" transition, the general told Airmen at each location that bringing the nuclear-capable bombers over from Air Combat Command into the new command that already controls ICBMs is a step that continues to strengthen the Air Force's 'nuclear enterprise.' Joining the command were the 20 stealth B-2 Spirits in Missouri, and the 76 remaining B-52 Stratofortresses stationed at bomber wings in Louisiana and North Dakota. Air Force Global Strike Command gained the ICBMs on Dec. 1.

"Global strike and nuclear deterrence are the heart-and-soul of what the Air Force does," the general said, emphasizing the importance of the command's mission of deterring potential enemies while assuring allies.

After addressing hundreds of Airmen in a 7:30 a.m. gathering Feb. 1 at Barksdale, one of the two B-52 units in the Air Force, General Klotz took off for Minot AFB, N.D., along with the 8th Air Force commander, Maj. Gen. Floyd Carpenter, and Chief Master Sgt. Jack Johnson, Jr., the AFGSC command chief. Eighth Air Force runs daily operations and planning for the B-2 and B-52 units.

At Minot General Klotz met hundreds more Airmen who support B-52 operations there. He also had lunch with local civic leaders, met with reporters and talked with the unit's senior leaders.

A few hours later, General Klotz headed to Whiteman AFB, Mo., home of the B-2, for similar activities, interacting with Airmen and community leaders, as well as the base's senior leaders.

"Last April, President Obama said in a speech in Prague in the Czech Republic that as long as nuclear weapons exist in the world, we will have a safe, secure and effective arsenal to deter attacks against the United States and to guarantee that same defense to our allies," the general said. "Those are our marching orders."

The general said it's been 27 years since Air Force officials created a brand-new major command, giving Air Force Global Strike Command a "golden opportunity."

"We have a great opportunity, ladies and gentlemen ... to get it absolutely right and to be a model command, a model for the rest of the Air Force."

B-2 aircrew participates in exercise in Pacific

A B-2 Spirit positions to receive fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker March 10 over the Pacific Ocean. More than 270 Airmen and four B-2s are deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, as part of a continuous bomber presence in the region. Pacific theater refueling operations are conducted by 434th Air Refueling Wing Airmen from Grissom Air Reserve Base, Ind. The B-2 is from the 509th Bomb Wing, 13th Bomb Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Kevin J. Gruenwald)

by Senior Airman Ryan Whitney, 36th Wing Public Affairs

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (AFNS) -- Airmen aboard a B-2 Spirit tested their endurance in a 24-hour, 8,000-mile mission to Alaska and back to Guam March 12 in an exercise showcasing U.S. commitment to peace and stability throughout the Pacific region.

Four B-2s and 270 Airmen from the 13th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron are deployed to Andersen Air Force Base from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., and this was the first bomber to complete the Polar Lightning Exercise since their arrival in late February.

Polar Lightning missions are flown to showcase the global reach and power of U.S. bomber force and at the same time the sorties give aircrews an opportunity to hone their skills. During the exercise, a B-2 Spirit aircrew flew for 11 hours to Alaska. After it arrived at the Alaskan Range, the stealth-bomber dropped more than 6,000 pounds of ordnance during two hours of range time, then returned to Andersen AFB.

"Most missions for bombers are long-duration flights like what we did during Polar Lightning," said Maj. Beth Makros, the 13th EBS assistant director of operations and mission planner for this exercise. "It is important that we practice like we play, and Polar Lightning provides a great opportunity for our aircrew to get some long endurance experience."

Although the stealth-bomber was originally scheduled to participate with F-22 Raptors, E-3 Sentries and F-16 Fighting Falcons from Elmendorf and Eielson Air Force bases in Alaska, the B-2 aircrews were still able to gain valuable training after inclement weather in Alaska prevented the other airframes from integrating with the B-2s.

"The training that the aircrew got was invaluable, and even though some of the players were unable to participate due to weather, we developed strong contacts with the other units for future Polar Lightning exercises," Major Makros said.

Polar Lightning is a frequent exercise, taking place approximately once a month. In order to fly such a long-duration mission, many preparations must be made. From eating the right diet, to lining up tanker aircraft support, to a good night's rest, preparation is key to a successful mission, the major said.

Making sure B-2s have enough fuel to complete their missions are Airmen aboard KC-135 Stratotankers from the 434th Air Refueling Squadron deployed here from Grissom Air Reserve Base, Ind.

"The tanker support here has been phenomenal. For this exercise, we had to refuel three times before the mission was over, and to ensure our success, not only did they have a tanker escort us to Alaska, but they prestaged tankers at Alaska to get us back home as well," Major Makros said.

Another important player in the exercise was the flight doctor, who monitored the pilots' sleep schedule and diet to make sure their level of alertness was as high as it could be during the stressful situation.

The mission also had to be scheduled so when they arrived in Alaska, the time of day was accurate so the ability of the stealth bomber was at its peak.

Although all the coordination and preparation was a lot of hard work, in the end it was worth the effort, the major said.

"The experience the crew gained from the exercise and taking off from a new location was completely irreplaceable, and without help from various players, it wouldn't have been possible," she said.

The Airmen and B-2s are part of a regularly scheduled air and space expeditionary force rotation of bombers that has been underway since 2003. The bomber rotation is aimed at enhancing regional security and demonstrating U.S. commitment to the Pacific region.

Whiteman Airmen make first all-air Guard B-2 flight

by Senior Airman Dilia Ayala, 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

Col. Gregory Champagne and Maj. David Thompson take off on a B-2 Spirit mission June 18 at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. It was the first sortie flown and launched by Air National Guard members. Colonel Champagne is the 131st Fighter Wing vice commander and Major Thompson is assigned to the 131st FW. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jessica Snow)

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. (AFPN) -- Airmen of the 131st Bomb Wing here completed the first B-2 Spirit sortie flown and launched by Missouri Air National Guard members June 18 at Whiteman Air Force Base.

Col. Gregory Champagne, the 131st Fighter Wing vice commander, and Maj. David Thompson, a 131st FW pilot, were launched by Master Sgt. Bob Francis and Tech Sgt. John Venable, both of the 131st Bomb Wing.

The 131st FW is losing its F-15 Eagle mission due to the recommendation of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission. The initiative integrates Air National Guard aircrew, maintainers and support staff with their 509th Bomb Wing active-duty counterparts in support of the B-2 mission with the ultimate goal of enhancing warfighting efficiencies.

"We are currently in the process (of transitioning)," Colonel Champagne said. "It is a 2.5 year process, and we are in the first year right now. We are right on time, everything is going well."

Although guardsmen have been flying B-2 missions with 509th BW Airmen over the last year, this is first time during the wing's transition to Whiteman AFB that 131st FW aircrew and maintenance personnel completed a sortie from launch through mission execution.

"We train the same. We are the same, and our goal is the same, which is the success of the mission," Colonel Champagne said.

Presently, the Missouri Air National Guard has seven B-2 qualified pilots and four in training. There are 46 members of the 131st FW currently operating out of Whiteman AFB. The Missouri Air National Guard will have 25 B-2 qualified pilots and approximately 500 maintainers, operations members and support staff at Whiteman AFB.

B-2s return to flight after safety pause

by Airman 1st Class Stephen Linch, 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

Col. Tom Bussiere and Maj. Rich Collins take off in a B-2 Spirit named the Spirit of Florida April 15 at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. The flight was the first since a B-2 crashed Feb. 23 at Andersen AFB, Guam. Colonel Bussiere is the 509th Operations Group commander, and Major Collins is the 394th Combat Training Squadron operations officer. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Charles Larkin Sr.)

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. (AFPN) -- A B-2 Spirit made a successful return to flight April 15 here after a 53-day safety pause for the aircraft following the first-ever crash of a stealth bomber Feb. 23 in Guam.

While an accident investigation board is still ongoing, Air Force and Air Combat Command maintenance and safety experts gave 509th Bomb Wing officials the green light to fly.

Col. Tom Bussiere, the 509th Operations Group commander, and Maj. Rich Collins, the 394th Combat Training Squadron operations officer, took a B-2 into the Missouri sky April 15 in the first flight since a B-2 crashed on takeoff Feb. 23 at Andersen AFB, Guam.

"We definitely wanted our return to flying to be deliberate and safe," said Brig. Gen. Gary Harencak, the 509th Bomb Wing commander.

B-2s have been flying almost 20 years and are renowned in the Air Force for their unprecedented safety record, General Harencak said.

"In the history of aviation, there's never been an aircraft with a safety record like the B-2," he said. "These bombers combined have a logged more than 14,000 sorties, 100 combat sorties and 75,000 flying hours without a single Class A mishap until now."

A Class A mishap is when there is loss of life or damage in excess of $1 million. But General Harencak said only one flight Class A mishap in 20 years beats the odds of almost any aircraft.

The B-2 that crashed, named the Spirit of Kansas, had logged more than 5,000 flight hours and 1,036 sorties before Feb. 23, and it was "renowned in the maintenance community for being a great jet," said Col. Bob Dulong, the 509th Maintenance Group commander.

"The B-2 is airpower at its purest, most elegant and deadliest form," the general said. "(It is) an aircraft that cannot be denied access with its range, payload and stealthiness. It has everything that is required to hold at risk any of America's enemies anywhere, anytime, and we can do it from here."

Whiteman AFB (Knob Noster, MO) Frequency List
ICAO: KSZL

41.000 National Guard (MO) Operations HAWK OPS (FM)
49.650 National Guard (MO) Operations HAWK OPS
118.725 ATIS
121.500 Emergency/Calling
121.750 Clearance Delivery
125.925 Departure Control
127.450 Approach Control
128.275 Ground Control
132.400 Tower
135.575 Kansas City ARTCC - Sedalia RCAG
139.000 National Guard (MO) Operations HAWK OPS (AM)
227.800 442FW/303FS Operations GROUND HOG
239.025 ATIS
242.400 National Guard (MO) Operations HAWK OPS
243.000 Emergency/Calling
255.600 Tower
275.800 Ground Control
284.000 Approach Control
311.000 509BW Command Post SPIRIT CONTROL
321.000 509BW Command Post SPIRIT CONTROL
323.150 Kansas City ARTCC - Sedalia RCAG
335.800 Clearance Delivery
343.650 Departure Control
344.600 Metro
369.900 Metro
372.200 PTD
381.300 509BW Command Post AURORA CONTROL
388.850 509BW A-A
393.000 509BW A-A

This frequency list is posted as a courtesy of Teak Publishing - the official sponsors of the Milcom Monitoring Post blog.

B-2s ready to fly despite safety pause

Filler up. A B-2 Spirit pulls up for an aerial refueling with a KC-135 Stratotanker over Kansas farmland. B-2s are stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. Although B-2 flying operations remain in temporary pause, the Airmen and aircraft are ready and capable to generate missions if necessary, according to Air Combat Command officials and the 509th Bomb Wing commander at Whiteman AFB. The KC-135 is assigned to the New Jersey Air National Guard's 108th Air Refueling Winguard. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Mark Olsen)

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- Although B-2 Spirit flying operations remain in temporary pause, the Airmen and aircraft are ready and capable to generate missions if necessary, according to Air Combat Command officials here and the 509th Bomb Wing commander at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo.

Since the first-ever B-2 crash Feb. 23 at Anderson AFB, Guam, all B-2s have remained suspended pending the results from a safety investigation board.

"This temporary pause is the prudent thing to do after an aircraft crashes," said Brig. Gen. Garrett Harencak, the 509th BW commander. But the mission of the 509th Bomb Wing continues. "If tasked, the wing is capable and ready to execute our mission and can generate aircraft immediately."

ACC officials said a safety pause is unlike a grounding order, which would prevent all affected aircraft from flying despite mission needs.

B-2s have been flying almost 20 years and are renowned in the Air Force for their unprecedented safety record, General Harencak said.

"This is the first B-2 crash in the history of the aircraft," he said. "These bombers combined have a logged more than 14,000 sorties, 100 combat sorties and 75,000 flying hours without a single Class A mishap until now."

A mishap is categorized as Class A when there is loss of life or damage in excess of $1 million.

But General Harencak said only one Class A mishap in 20 years beats the odds of almost any aircraft.

The B-2 is a revolution in airpower, he said. A single B-2 can strike multiple-targets, instead of needing multiple aircraft to strike a single target. A combination of stealth technology, precision weapons, long range and large payload give the B-2 the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses, providing a strong effective deterrent and combat force for the nation.

The B-2 that crashed was named the Spirit of Kansas. It had logged more than 5,000 flight hours and 1,036 sorties before Feb. 23, and it was "renowned in the maintenance community for being a great jet," said Col. Bob Dulong, the 509th Maintenance Group commander.

Because B-2 aircraft are an invaluable commodity -- in performance and cost (at $1.2 billion per aircraft) -- General Harencak said officials of the 509th BW and ACC are taking measures for safety and prevention of further loss.

"We definitely want our return to flying to be deliberate and safe," he said.