Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Combined aerial drill by ROKAF and USAF with F-15K and KF-16 Fighters, along with the Deployment of US B-52H Strategic Bomber on the Korean Peninsula

On March 6, a combined aerial drill was conducted by ROKAF and USAF with the deployment of B-52H strategic bomber on the Korean Peninsula. This training followed the deployment of US B-1B strategic bomber on March 3. ROKAF F-15K and KF-16 fighters took part in the exercise, which was held over the West Sea.

This combined aerial drill is particularly important as it coincides with the beginning of a collaborative ROK/US military exercise (Freedom Shield) scheduled for the first half of 2023, which highlights the close cooperation between the defense authorities of both nations.

The exercise demonstrates the fulfillment of a commitment made by the US during the Korea-US defense ministerial meeting on January 31 to increase the frequency and intensity of strategic asset deployments on the Korean Peninsula.

In the future, South Korea and the United States will enhance their joint military exercises by deploying US strategic assets and working closely together, to achieve "peace through strength" and activate the US extended deterrence.