U.S. Air Force B-52 Bombers Strike Finland with JDAM Guided Munitions for Historic First Time

On March 6, 2025, two U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers conducted air-to-ground bombing exercises in Finland, marking the first such operation on Finnish soil. The bombers, accompanied by Finnish Air Force F/A-18 Hornet fighters, dropped guided JDAM bombs at the Rovajärvi firing range as part of a collaborative effort between the U.S. and Finland.

This exercise is significant as it represents a deepening military collaboration between Finland and the united states. Joint training missions have been occurring in Finnish airspace since July 2024, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to NATO Allies in Europe. The B-52 bombers regularly participate in Bomber Task Force operations, which aim to enhance interoperability among NATO forces.

Key details of the exercise include:

• First air-to-ground bombing by B-52s in Finland.
• Joint operations involved U.S. Air Force and Finnish Army Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs).
• Focus on training Finnish Air Force and Army units in coordinated fire operations.

Brigadier General Aki Puustinen, Chief of Staff of Air Force Command Finland, noted that such joint fire missions significantly bolster Finland’s defense capabilities. The operation not only enhances Finland’s military readiness but also contributes to NATO’s deterrence strategy in Northern Europe. Additionally, Finnish Hornet fighters have engaged in Bomber Task Force operations in neighboring Sweden and Estonia, further integrating Finland into NATO’s defense framework.

The successful execution of these bombing exercises underscores the strengthening ties between the U.S. and Finland, reflecting a commitment to collective defense and military readiness in the face of evolving security challenges in Europe.