U.S., South Korea fly bomber training missions amid tensions with North

The U.S. and South Korea flew nuclear-capable bombers and advanced stealth fighters on Tuesday in a demonstration of their ability to operate together in a combat environment.

The drills took place in South Korea’s air defense identification zone southwest of the country’s Jeju island. It involved U.S. B-52 strategic bombers and F-22 stealth fighters, along with F-35 and F-15 fighters from the Republic of Korea.

“The deployment of the B-52H and F-22 fighters this time is part of an effort to reinforce the credibility of the U.S.’ extended deterrence,” the Yonhap News Agency said, citing the South Korean Defense Ministry.

The F-22 fighters were sent from Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. They will conduct separate air drills with South Korea’s F-35A jets to improve the ability of both countries to respond to North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, defense officials in Seoul said.