The United States is applying pressure to North Korea, flying B-1 bombers with Japanese and South Korean fighter jets over the Sea of Japan at night.
This is the first time B-1B Lancers, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), and the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) have trained together at night, according to a statement released by U.S. Pacific Air Forces. Bilateral training allows the units to combine their tactical skills and capabilities while developing strong relationships.
Air-to-ground missile tests were conducted by the B-1 Bombers off the east coast of South Korea The drills were repeated in the waters near China.
Training at night is safe, effective, and is a capability that applies pressure to North Korea. It also sharpens the tactical dexterity of the pilots, according to U.S. Air Force Major Patrick Applegate.
This is a clear demonstration of our ability to conduct seamless operations with all of our allies anytime anywhere.
Recently, North Korea conducted a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile and hydrogen bomb test. As tensions continue to grow between the U.S. and the Korean peninsula, the capabilities of the nations involved are constantly proven. Additionally, there is a continuous presence of U.S. B-1 Bombers in Guam.
Donald Trump told the United Nations, “We need to settle the final score, only with a hail of fire, not words.” According to North Korea’s foreign minister Ri Yong Ho, this statement lit the fuse of war.
Kim Jong Un claims his nuclear goal it to create a balance of power between his country and the U.S. and says that negotiations are not an option.
This has spurred Trump to continue to use U.S. forces to apply pressure to North Korea.
By Jeanette Smith
Sources:
ABC News: US bombers fly over Sea of Japan in show of force for North Korea
New York Post: North Korea to US: We’re on the brink of nuclear war
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