MEDAN, Indonesia — More than 60 Airmen and two B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing from Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, completed a bilateral interoperability exercise in Indonesia.

The exercise, which lasted about a week and was supported by various U.S. Pacific Air Forces units, marked the first time U.S. Air Force B-52s landed on and operated from Indonesian soil.

“It’s exciting to be a part of this historical milestone,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Justin Kinker, 23rd Bomb Squadron weapons officer and exercise team lead. “Everyone on our team is very proud to have had a hand in this.”
The exercise offered an opportunity to advance the ability of U.S. and Indonesian air forces to work together; allowed for the exchange of tactics, techniques and procedures specific to each nation’s aircraft; and promoted regional stability through cooperation, enhancing mutual understanding and an already strong partnership.

“Enhancing interoperability between U.S. and Indonesian air forces contributes to the long-term advancement of our nations’ shared interests,” explained Kinker. “This was a great opportunity for us to train alongside our partners to bolster our collective ability to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

The B-52s and 5th Bomb Wing Airmen who participated in the exercise have left Indonesia and are currently supporting a Bomber Task Force deployment at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.