US bombers join jets from Japan, SKorea for training mission

“U.S. bombers and Republic of Korea fighters are just two of many lethal military options at our disposal,” said Lt. Gen. Thomas Bergeson, U.S. Forces Korea deputy commander. “This mission clearly demonstrates the U.S.-ROK alliance remains prepared to use the full range of capabilities to defend and to preserve the security of the Korean Peninsula and region.”

When the B-1Bs reached the Korean Peninsula, they were joined by South Korean F-15 fighter jets and U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jets. The B-1Bs practiced what officials called “attack capabilities” by releasing inert weapons at the Pilsung Range.

As the bombers returned to Guam, they flew over the East China Sea with F-2 fighter jets of the Koku Jieitai, or Japan Air Self-Defence Force, the statement said.

“The U.S.-Japan alliance and the relationship between our militaries are stronger than they have ever been,” said Lt. Gen. Jerry P. Martinez, U.S. Forces Japan commander. “We continue to train with our Japanese allies to ensure we are ready to defend ourselves from attack.”

President Donald Trump and the leaders of South Korea and Japan, who met during the G-20 summit in Germany, issued a joint statement condemning the North’s recent test-launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile and calling it a global threat that demanded “maximum pressure” in response.

A day earlier in Poland, Trump said the U.S. was considering “some pretty severe things” in response to North Korea’s actions. While he offered no specifics, he has not ruled out military action.

North Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said its intercontinental ballistic missile is meant to overcome U.S. hostility and enable the North to “strike the very heart of the U.S. at any given time.”

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Associated Press writer Douglass K. Daniel in Washington contributed to this report.

The Associated Press

by Canadian Press

US bombers join jets from Japan, SKorea for training mission

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