US to deploy nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to Australia amid China tension [Video]

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• The U.S. is planning to deploy up to six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to Australia amid heightened tensions with China.
• The development prompted China to accuse the U.S. of undermining regional peace and stability.
• B-52 bombers, which boast a combat range of about 14,000 km, serve as a threat to China as concerns grow about Beijing’s assault on Taiwan.

The United States is preparing to deploy nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to Australia amid increased tensions with China, according to a source, who declined to be named because they are not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

The Royal Australian Air Force’s remote Tindal base will accommodate the bombers, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The Australian Broadcasting Corp’s Four Corners program first reported the development.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the country coordinates with the U.S. on defense alliances “from time to time”.

“There are visits, of course, to Australia, including in Darwin, that has U.S. Marines, of course, on a rotating basis stationed there,” the PM said during a press conference.

U.S. Marines rotate annually through Australia’s Northern Territory for training and joint exercises since the Obama administration.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said defense and security alliances between nations should not target third parties.

“The relevant practices of the U.S. side have increased tensions in the region, seriously undermined regional peace and stability, and may trigger an arms race in the region,” Zhao said.

“China urges the parties concerned to abandon the old Cold War zero-sum mentality and narrow geopolitical concepts, and do more to contribute to regional peace and stability and to enhance mutual trust.”

According to the ABC report, the U.S. has prepared detailed plans for what it calls a “squadron operations facility” for use during the Northern Territory dry season, an adjoining maintenance facility and a hangar for the long-range bombers.

The U.S. Air Force’s capacity to send up to six B-52 bombers Down Under sends a strong message to Rivals about the United States’ ability to project air power.

The U.S. made a security deal with Britain and Australia last year that will provide the country-continent with the technology to deploy nuclear-powered submarines, rising tensions with China.

B-52s, which boast a combat range of about 14,000 km, serve as a threat to China as concerns grow about Beijing’s assault on Taiwan.

The U.S. deployed four B-52s in June to its Andersen Air Force base in Guam amid rising tensions with China and North Korea.

Meanwhile, a known Chinese commentator has posted to Twitter, warning Australia that China’s missiles “fly faster” than the US Air Force’s B-52 bombers.

Source: Reuters