USAG Humphreys, Republic of Korea -- The Republic of Korea (ROK) and U.S. conducted a combined aerial exercise in conjunction with the deployment of U.S. B-1B Strategic Bombers to the Korean peninsula on March 19, which was the 7th day of the Freedom Shield 23 exercise which began on March 13.

In the latest U.S.-ROK combined air training event, ROK Air Force’s F-35A stealth fighters, and U.S. Air Force’s F-16 fighters conducted combined flight operations above the Korean Peninsula.

The ROK and U.S. are displaying a robust combined defense posture and showcasing extended deterrence in action. The training assessed ROK and U.S. forces continue to strengthen interoperability, increase deployment capability of flexible response forces, and increase robust wartime strategic strike capabilities.

The ROK and U.S. Alliance always maintain the highest level of readiness. DPRK’s recent missile launches highlight the destabilizing impact of its unlawful WMD and ballistic missile programs. The ROK-U.S. Alliance maintains peace through strength, credibility, and a robust combined defense posture.

The U.S. remains committed to peace and prosperity through the region to secure a free and open Indo-Pacific, and our commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea remains ironclad.