Rapid launch

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. – A B-52H Stratofortress takes off as part of a rapid launch during an annual exercise here June 11. As a finale for the exercise, several B-52s took off in rapid succession, signaling the end of the training mission. The exercise provides training opportunities for forces to deter, and if necessary defeat, a military attack against the United States. The rapid launch included 17 B-52s from both Minot AFB and Barksdale AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jesse Lopez)

Rapid launch

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. – A B-52H Stratofortress takes off as part of a rapid launch during an annual exercise here June 11. As a finale for the exercise, several B-52s took off in rapid succession, signaling the end of the training mission. The exercise provides training opportunities for forces to deter, and if necessary defeat, a military attack against the United States. The rapid launch included 17 B-52s from both Minot AFB and Barksdale AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jesse Lopez)

Rapid Launch

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- B-52H Stratofortresses waits to enter the runway during a rapid launch that concluded the exercise Constant Vigilance, here June 11. The rapid launch helps pilots and crew members train for a real life instance in which they could be notified to deliver their support at their request of combatant commanders as quickly as possible. (U.S Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Crawford)

Rapid Launch

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Jessica Presley and her son Bryant sit and anticipate the launch of 17 B-52H Stratofortresses at the conclusion of an exercise here June 11. Jessica is the wife of Staff Sgt. Chad Presley who is a B-52 crew chief. (U.S Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Andrew Crawford)

Rapid launch

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Family and friends of B-52H Stratofortress pilots and crew members gather at an aircraft hanger to witness the rapid launch of 17 B-52s at the conclusion of an exercise here June 11. The take-off happens in rapid succession in order to simulate responding to a request for air support by combatant commanders. (U.S Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Stephanie Ashley)

Rapid Launch Exercise

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Five B-52H Stratofortresses taxi down the runway during a 17-ship rapid launch exercise here June 11. Exercises like these are integral to maintaining mission readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Brittany Y. Auld)