The US has deployed a B-1 strategic bomber to South Korea, Yonhap reported. The decision was made in response to North Korea's recent missile tests. Most recently, Pyongyang launched a short-range ballistic missile into the sea on the morning of March 19.
In South Korea, B-1 bombers will participate in the "Freedom Shield" exercise with South Korean F-35A fighters and US F-16s.
Developed in the 1970s, the B-1 Phantom is considered one of the backbones of the US long-range bomber force. The B-1 can fly at speeds of over 900 mph and can carry more than 7,000 pounds of ammunition.
It uses four General Electric F101-GE-102 jet engines and is capable of carrying AGM-86B cruise missiles and AGM-69 short-range attack missiles along with various types of bombs.
US military officials said the Freedom Shield exercise will last 11 days, including various training exercises to enhance coordination between the two allied militaries in combat operations "by air, by land, by sea, in space, in cyberspace and other special operations."
AC-130 "ghost" fires at target in joint exercise with South Korea
Earlier, in late February, the US deployed AC-130J ground attack aircraft to participate in exercises with South Korean special forces. In a video posted in early March, the US Air Force released images of AC-130J aircraft performing circling maneuvers and attacking a small island with cannons. In addition, at least two GBU-39B guided bombs were also dropped on the target.
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