It marks the most significant collaboration in two years and included dozens of fighter jets, strategic B-52 bombers and refueling aircraft.
The Israeli and U.S. Air Forces this week conducted a significant joint military exercise over the Mediterranean Sea, their first collaboration of this scale in two years.
Dozens of fighter jets, strategic B-52 bombers and refueling aircraft participated, simulating coordinated strikes on shared targets, Israel’s Kan News public broadcaster reported on Tuesday.
The drill comes as foreign reports suggest Israel is urging the United States to take joint action against Iran’s nuclear program. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized collaboration with Washington to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar warned that diplomatic efforts are faltering, leaving military action as a possibility.
Iran is reportedly bracing for an Israeli strike, with The Telegraph citing sources who claim Tehran is on high alert, strengthening defenses at undisclosed sites following recent Israeli attacks.
Image - Israeli Air Force F-15s escort an American B-52 bomber through Israeli skies on Feb. 14, 2022. Credit: IDF Spokesperson's Unit.