Signaling the shared commitment between the U.S. and Norway to deter threats and strengthen the NATO Alliance, the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber landed in Norway for the first time. On August 29, 2023, the United States Air Force achieved a significant milestone as the B-2 Spirit, operating from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, executed a hot pit refueling at Orland Air Base in Norway.
The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. Brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe through previously impenetrable defenses. The B-2’s stealth attributes are a culmination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual, and radar signatures, making it an elusive target for enemy defenses. With a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles unrefueled, the B-2 is designed for long-range missions, supported by a small crew of just two pilots.
As Gen. James Hecker, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe & Africa and NATO Allied Air Command, stated, “Hot-pit refueling emerges as a transformative tactic in bomber operations, promising heightened versatility.” This method of refueling not only provides operational efficiency but also offers a glimpse into the adaptability and forward-thinking strategies employed by the U.S. Air Force.
“The long-range, penetrating strike the B-2 provides is a truly unique capability in the world; but long-range requires a lot of gas. Honing our ability to interoperate with our allies and utilize partner-nation equipment and infrastructure to refuel can significantly reduce what we often call our ‘tanker bill;’ in some cases, it could be the difference between mission success and failure,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andrew Kousgaard, 393rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron commander.
