B-52s complete SUNSET-21 at Andersen

GUAM

09.22.2021

Story by Senior Airman Taylor Hunter 

Pacific Air Forces

Sunset-21, a Bomber Task Force mission, came to a close at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam Oct 1, 2021, after playing a role in integrating Pacific Air Forces with international partners. More than 200 members from reserve, guard and active duty units at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana participated in the exercise.
“It is incredibly important for us to maintain a regular presence in this area. Our interests and our allies' interests are fortified by our operational missions here,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Gregory Watson, Assistant Director of Operations.
The Bomber Task Force mission, or BTF, is an exercise that provides training and development for the participating units simulating combat environments while incorporating collaboration with PACAF partners and strengthening the vulnerabilities of all members and teams.
“Personally, I've flown sorties integrating with the [Japan Air Self Defense Force], USAF fighters and other assets, and [U.S. Navy] aircraft and ships,” Watson said. “The flying and integration with our joint and allied forces, all while operating in a theater with vital national interests is my favorite part.”
These practices show not only the coalition of bonds with our partners, but joint offensive counter-air capabilities for any potential contenders.
“BTFs are operational deployments with theater level objectives,” Watson stated. ”So we are executing per the combatant commander's plans to deter our adversaries, assure our allies, and always be able to flex to combat operations if necessary.”
Watson added that this familiarization is key to seamless deployments and operations should actual combat operations kick off.
“BTFs also expose us to the global combatant commands from which we'll operate in combat,” Watson said.
Four B-52H Stratofortresses from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, engaged in airborne operations, command and control functions, mission training and practice maneuvers. Each part grew the teams involved on and off the job.
“Everyone on our team has had a very positive experience,” Watson said. “The missions here are important and our folks understand their significance, so that is incredibly motivating.”

• Date Taken: 09.22.2021
• Date Posted: 10.07.2021 21:40
• Story ID: 406593
• Location: GU