F15-E Strike Eagles from the 492nd Fighter Squadron returned to RAF Lakenheath, England, on Oct. 20 at the conclusion of exercise Noble Arrow 16. About 30 US airmen supported the joint exercise between NATO allies UK and Portugal, which began on Oct. 8 and included air-to-air, air-to-surface, and air-to-sea scenarios. “The US and NATO mutually share and value the principles of security, stability, and democracy for all alliance citizens in North America and Europe,” a pilot from the 492nd FS said, according to a press release. “This showcases the steadfast commitment the US has for its transatlantic partnership and maintaining our common defense.”
Expanded production of the B-21 bomber can be accomplished at Northrop Grumman's existing Palmdale, Calif., facilities, the Air Force said. It also said test aircraft will be so simular to the production version that early examples could be used in combat if called for.