The U.S. Air Force integrated with fighters across Europe this week for the ONYX CROSS Bomber Task Force Mission, showcasing flight maneuvers and combat tactics.

On Monday, U.S. B-52H Stratofortresses, operating out of the U.K.’s RAF Fairford base, teamed up with fighter pilots from Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia to execute the mission focused on improving coordination and refining combat strategies.

“BTF missions serve as an assurance and deterrence initiative — they aim to provide a strategic element to NATO’s collective defense,” said Capt. Aaron Gurley, a bomber task force planner for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Africa.

According to the Air Force, missions like ONYX CROSS are essential team-building exercises that improve combat tactics.

“The B-52 integrates seamlessly with allied and partner forces through combined operations like ONYX CROSS,” Air Force Capt. Jacob “Crash” Carlson, a pilot with the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, said. “We refine tactics, communication and operational coordination. Using secure networks, we share real-time data, ensuring close integration for strategic deterrence, close-air support and precision strike missions.”

The 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron has flown seven similar missions with allied air forces since arriving at RAF Fairford. The Air Force says the missions improve NATO’s ability to operate as a cohesive force against any threat.

“Operating alongside partners has very much shaped my approach by emphasizing clear communication, adaptability to different frameworks, and leveraging coalition strengths to achieve mission success,” Carlson said. “These experiences have refined how we plan for contingencies, execute complex operations, and assess mission outcomes, ensuring we can operate as one unified force when called upon.”

• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.