BALTOPS

Aircrew assigned to the 20th Bomb Squadron prepare to board a 2nd Bomb Wing B-52H at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., June 10 for a flight in support of Exercise BALTOPS 2012. Airmen from the 20th and 96th Bomb Squadrons teamed with Airmen from the 307th Bomb Wing's 343rd Bomb Squadron to generate aircraft in support of the largest multinational maritime exercise this year in the Baltic Sea. The Barksdale B-52 aircrews conducted flight missions lasting more than 25 hours during the exercise involving 12 countries during the first two weeks in June. In its 40th year, Exercise BALTOPS aims to improve maritime security in the Baltic Sea through increased interoperability and cooperation among regional allies. The 2 BW routinely participates in worldwide exercises to constantly refine and improve operational procedures and capabilities with other U.S. services and our allies. Wing Airmen train often to ensure base units are ready to fight any challenge, anywhere at any time. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua)(RELEASED)