A US B-52 and Israeli F-35i and F-15i fighter jets

Erez Linn – Israel Hayom June 3, 2025

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and United States Air Force recently concluded a significant joint aerial exercise, featuring advanced aircraft from both militaries operating in coordinated maneuvers. The drill involved Israeli F-35i and F-15i fighters flying alongside an American B-52 strategic bomber, presumably aimed at sending a message to Iran that Israel has regional backing against Tehran and its proxies.

This comes amid ongoing reports on Israel reportedly preparing for a strike on Iran’s nuclear installations in the coming months, and Iran upping its defenses of those sites.

Military officials stated the exercise focused on operational coordination between the two allied forces, with particular emphasis on enhancing their combined capabilities to address various regional security challenges.

The joint training represents another milestone in the ongoing strategic partnership between the IDF and US Central Command (CENTCOM). Defense analysts note this relationship has continued to develop and strengthen over time through regular combined exercises and strategic coordination.

“On March 4, US Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a Bomber Task Force Mission in the Middle East, strengthening partner interoperability and demonstrating force projection capabilities in the region. It was the third BTF mission in two weeks,” the US regional command wrote on X. “A B-52H Stratofortress from RAF Fairford, UK, flew across Europe and into the CENTCOM area of responsibility during their mission, which included aerial refueling and training opportunities with partner nations.”

Neither military has released specific details regarding the exact scenarios practiced during the exercise, though such drills typically involve simulated missions that test communication systems, tactical coordination, and operational integration.

This exercise comes amid persistent regional tensions, underscoring the importance of military readiness and interoperability between Israel and its key strategic ally.

Tensions between Iran and Israel have been escalating for years, driven by deep-seated political, ideological, and military rivalries. The conflict intensified significantly in 2024 with direct confrontations, including missile strikes and aerial attacks. In April 2024, Israel allegedly bombed a buidling affiliated with the Iranian consulate in Damascus, leading to retaliatory strikes by Iran and its allies. The situation further deteriorated with ongoing hostilities involving various regional actors, raising concerns about a broader conflict in the Middle East. Iran later attacked Israel in October in response to the assassination of senior Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, including Isamil Haniyeh, who was assassinated during his stay in Tehran.

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