In support of a long-range mission to the Arctic and North Sea regions, aircrews from the 2nd and 307th Bomb Wings board a bus that will take them to their B-52H Stratofortress aircraft on Barksdale Air Force Base, La., April 1, 2015. Called "Polar Growl," the mission will help ensure the bomber crews maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and demonstrate their ability to provide a flexible and always-ready, global-strike capability. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Curt Beach)
Aircrews from the 2nd and 307th Bomb Wings step out to their B-52H Stratofortress aircraft on Barksdale Air Force Base, La., April 1, 2015. In support of a long-range mission to the Arctic and North Sea regions, the mission called "Polar Growl" will help ensure the bomber crews maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and demonstrate their ability to provide a flexible and always-ready, global-strike capability. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Curt Beach)
A B-52H Stratofortress prepares to take off at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., April 1, 2015. The flight was part of a U.S. Strategic Command-directed mission to the Arctic and North Sea regions called "Polar Growl." Bomber operations provide a flexible and visible signal that highlights the U.S. ability to deter strategic attacks and respond to any potential future crisis or challenge. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Curt Beach)
A B-52H Stratofortress takes off at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., April 1, 2015. The flight was in support of a U.S. Strategic Command-directed mission to the Arctic and North Sea regions called "Polar Growl." Bomber operations provide a flexible and visible signal that highlights the U.S. ability to deter strategic attacks and respond to any potential future crisis or challenge. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Curt Beach)