US plans to send B-1 strategic bombers near the East Sea

The presence of long-range B-1 bombers in Australia will help the US bring its forces closer to the East Sea.

US B-1 Lancer long-range strategic bomber. Photo: Wikipedia

On March 8, US defense officials said they were considering the possibility of deploying long-range bombers to Australia, a move that would help the US military move forces closer to the East Sea, where China is making militarization moves by sending missiles and fighter jets to Vietnam's Hoang Sa archipelago, according to Time.

Accordingly, this plan is still in the negotiation stage between the US and Australia. If implemented, it will enhance the "global strike and deterrence capabilities of the US military to maintain peace and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region", Lieutenant General Damien Pickart, spokesman for the US Air Force in the Pacific, announced.

SBS on March 9 quoted General Lori Robinson, commander of the US Air Force in the Pacific, saying that the US has begun negotiations with Australia about rotating B-1 long-range bombers and aerial refueling aircraft at bases in Australia's Northern Territory.

Speaking to reporters today, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull refused to provide details of the discussions between the two countries. "Obviously we don't have a closer relationship with any country than the United States," Mr. Turnbull said.

“I won’t comment on specific elements, but I can assure you that everything we do in this region is very carefully considered to ensure our military forces work as closely together as possible for the common national interest.”

In response to the above information, the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that such military cooperation activities should not target third parties in the region.

"We express concern about such information. The main trend and desire of the people in the region is to seek peace and cooperation for common development," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said today.

The US has recently increased its training in Australia as part of its defence cooperation programme. More US troops are training in Australia, and B-52 strategic bombers have also flown to air bases in Darwin and Tindal.

"The B-1 is not a new aircraft, but it has many advantages over the B-52. The B-1 has the same range as the B-52, but at a much higher speed and can fly lower, so it has many tactical advantages," said expert Euan Graham at the Lowy Institute.

According to VNE