A B-52H Stratofortress arrives at Royal Air Force Fairford,

A B-52H Stratofortress arrives at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom, June 1, 2017. Three B-52s from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., operated out of RAF Fairford in support of exercises Arctic Challenge, BALTOPS 17 and Saber Strike 17. The responsibility to deter a strategic attack against the U.S. and its allies is U.S. Strategic Command’s fundamental mission. These missions validate the readiness and capability of its bomber forces, which is a critical component of the safe, secure, effective and ready deterrent force that USSTRATCOM provides the nation and its allies. The B-52 is a long-range, heavy bomber that can perform strategic attack, close-air support, air interdiction, offensive counter-air and maritime operations. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Curt Beach)