“The purpose of ‘Prairie Vigilance’ is inherent in the name itself: vigilance,” said Col. Jesse Lamarand, 5th Bomb Wing commander. “It’s how the 5th Bomb Wing ensures the safety, security and reliability of not just the weapons on base, but the human weapons systems that are involved in maintaining, sustaining and executing our president’s nuclear options.”

These training operations enable crews to maintain a high state of readiness and proficiency and validate the always-ready, global strike capability. The Vigilance series also enhances the safety, security and reliability of the bomber leg of the U.S. nuclear triad.

“Col. Lamarand says all the time that even though this is for practice, people are watching,” said Chief Master Sgt. Wayne Sharp, 5th Bomb Wing command chief. “These training operations let our adversaries and allies know that we operate in safe and reliable conditions, and we’re ready to go at any given time.”

The training operation demonstrated Air Force Global Strike Command’s air power and capabilities, ensuring Minot Air Force Base and Barksdale Air Force Base airmen are prepared and ready to execute such a vital mission. Hundreds of airmen including aircraft maintainers, security forces and aircrews from two wings were tested and have shown their superior response efforts in support of deterring and, if necessary, responding to strategic attacks against the United States and its allies and partners.

PV/BV operations are regularly planned and are not scheduled or conducted in response to any specific geopolitical conditions or situations. These training missions are routine and occur multiple times per year.

This training operation not only demonstrates the wings’ ability to stand alert if needed to deter or respond to an attack, but it demonstrates their ability to project lethal combat power across the globe.

This was the third iteration of PV/BV for 2024.