The United States Air Force (USAF) plans to deploy six Boeing B-52 long-range bombers in northern Australia, according to Reuters sources.
The strategic aircraft are expected to operate from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Tindal Air Base, which is located about 4,500 km off the coast of China.
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The nuclear-capable B-52H would be a response to heightened tensions with the Chinese in the region, who carried out military exercises near Taiwan weeks ago.
Between January and August, the USAF maintained four B-2 Spirit stealth bombers in Australia, which were based at Amberley in the east of the country. The aircraft participated in military exercises until August 17, when they returned to Whiteman Air Force Base, USA.
The deployment of the B-52s, however, would be for a long-term stay, which will include the adaptation of the Tindal base to keep them active.
In 2021, the US, UK and Australia signed a security pact that includes the supply of nuclear attack submarines to the country of Oceania, which sparked protests from China.
