The North Dakota Air National Guard will establish a new support unit for the Air Force’s B-52 bombers at Minot Air Force Base next year, Gov. Kelly Armstrong announced Thursday.

The B-52 Operational Classic Association detachment will support the B-52 mission under the 5th Bomb Wing of the Air Force and the Air National Guard’s 119th Wing, according to a news release from the North Dakota governor’s office.

About 40 Guard members are expected to make up the new support detachment and could be integrated into the base and assist with bomber operations as soon as Oct. 1, 2026. The Air Force Global Strike Command will also develop plans to expand the new detachment in the future.

“The military in North Dakota continues to play a critical role in our national security, ensuring peace throu

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