US Airmen deploy in support of first rotational Bomber Task Force mission to Japan

U.S. Air Force maintainers assigned to the 9th Bomber Generation Squadron prepare B-1B Lancer for take-off in support of a Bomber Task Force at Misawa Air Base, Japan, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Apr. 14, 2025. BTF deployments like this enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alondra Cristobal Hernandez)

US Airmen deploy in support of first rotational Bomber Task Force mission to Japan

Two B-1B Lancers assigned to the 9th Bomb Squadron taxi on the flightline before takeoff to support a Bomber Task Force at Misawa Air Base, Japan, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Apr. 14, 2025. BTF deployments like this enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge across the globe. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alondra Cristobal Hernandez)

US Airmen deploy in support of first rotational Bomber Task Force mission to Japan

A B-1B Lancer assigned to the 9th Bomb Squadron takes off from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Apr. 14, 2025, in support of a Bomber Task Force at Misawa Air Base, Japan. The U.S. Air Force is engaged, postured, and ready with credible force to assure, deter, and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alondra Cristobal Hernandez)

Airmen, aircraft deploy in support of first Bomber Task Force mission to Japan

Published April 15, 2025
By Senior Airman Emma Anderson
Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --

A Bomber Task Force deployment of U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer aircraft, Airmen and support equipment from the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, arrived at Misawa Air Base, Japan, April 15, 2025, to support Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with Allies, partners, and joint forces and strategic deterrence missions to reinforce regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

These deployments continue the enduring security cooperation with Japan and support our combined capability to quickly and decisively respond to any challenge presented in the Indo-Pacific.

Bomber Task Force deployments familiarize aircrew with air bases and operations in different Geographic Combatant Commands’ areas of operations. This deployment to Japan showcases the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and our Allies and partners.

“BTF 25-2 showcases the U.S. commitment to deterring threats and maintaining regional stability,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Travelstead, 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron director of operations. “These missions in the Indo-Pacific ensure our B-1 crews are highly trained and ready to respond anytime, anywhere, to defend U.S. interests and support our allies, securing a stable Indo-Pacific—where all nations operate freely under a rules-based order while promoting global peace and prosperity.”

The U.S. remains committed to the shared vision of a secure, free, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region and we will continue to take opportunities to train with Allies and partners to demonstrate interoperability and build lasting relationships.

The National Diet and the Government of the United States of America are committed to reinforcing deterrence to promote regional stability and deter the outbreak of conflict.