A B-2 Spirit stealth bomber slices low over the turquoise waters of Miami Beach, turning heads and rattling beach umbrellas in a show of raw American aerospace dominance. Image Credit: The Official Website of Greater Miami and Miami Beach
Memorial Day weekend in Miami Beach is no stranger to spectacle, tiny bikinis, aqua-blue water, and fantastic Cuban food, but on May 26, 2025, the heavens themselves roared with a patriotic fervor that shook the sand and stirred the soul. The Freedom Flyover, a centerpiece of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, delivered an aerial display that was both a tribute to fallen heroes and a testament to American air superiority.
As the sun blazed over the Atlantic, beachgoers were treated to a formation of seven of the U.S. Air Force’s most formidable aircraft slicing through the sky in a synchronized ballet of power and precision. The lineup: B-2 Spirit, B-1B Lancer, B-52H Stratofortress, F-22 Raptor, F-15C Eagle, F-16C Fighting Falcon, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II. Each jet, a symbol of technological prowess, flew in a formation that was as much about unity as it was about might.
Behold the wonder of American airpower at its finest.
Spotted in Miami today in honor of Memorial Day: A formation flyover of a B-1, B-2, B-52, A-10, F-15, F-16, and F-22.
Memorial Day weekend in Miami Beach is no stranger to spectacle, tiny bikinis, aqua-blue water, and fantastic Cuban food, but on May 26, 2025, the heavens themselves roared with a patriotic fervor that shook the sand and stirred the soul. The Freedom Flyover, a centerpiece of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, delivered an aerial display that was both a tribute to fallen heroes and a testament to American air superiority.
As the sun blazed over the Atlantic, beachgoers were treated to a formation of seven of the U.S. Air Force’s most formidable aircraft slicing through the sky in a synchronized ballet of power and precision. The lineup: B-2 Spirit, B-1B Lancer, B-52H Stratofortress, F-22 Raptor, F-15C Eagle, F-16C Fighting Falcon, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II. Each jet, a symbol of technological prowess, flew in a formation that was as much about unity as it was about might.
Behold the wonder of American airpower at its finest.
Spotted in Miami today in honor of Memorial Day: A formation flyover of a B-1, B-2, B-52, A-10, F-15, F-16, and F-22.
The event was orchestrated under the banner of the Hyundai Air & Sea Show, an annual extravaganza that transforms Miami Beach into a theater of military might and maritime marvels. Sponsored by Hyundai Motor America, the show is a free-to-the-public event that celebrates the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. This year’s edition marked the ninth annual salute, bringing together all six branches of the military in a display of solidarity and strength.
The Freedom Flyover was a visual feast and a logistical symphony, integrating active-duty, guard, and reserve pilots in a demonstration of the Air Force‘s Total Force concept. The inclusion of both bombers and fighters in a single formation was a historic first, showcasing the seamless collaboration across different components of our armed forces.
Miami Beach got rid of “urban music weekend” on Memorial Day and replaced it with a wholesome Patriotic event honoring American heroes 🦅🇺🇸✨ pic.twitter.com/3LDjYD0HgG
— Mostly Peaceful Latinas (@mplpodcast305) May 26, 2025
A Formation of Firsts
While tri-bomber flyovers have graced the skies before, this was the inaugural instance where fighter aircraft joined the bombers in such a grand formation. The absence of the B-21 Raider, F-35A Lightning II, and AC-130J Ghostrider was noted, but the spectacle was no less awe-inspiring. The formation symbolized a unified front, a “one unstoppable force” as described by the Air Force Global Strike Command.
Spectators lined the shores, their eyes fixed skyward as the aircraft thundered overhead, leaving trails of vapor and a resonating sense of pride. The flyover served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the enduring strength of America’s military.
Military might over Miami. Image Credit: New York Post
Beyond the Flyover: A Full-Throttle Festival
The Hyundai Air & Sea Show extended beyond the Freedom Flyover, offering a weekend packed with high-speed flyovers, choreographed jet demonstrations, and elite special operations showcases. Ground displays featured cutting-edge military technology, interactive activations, and opportunities for the public to engage with service members.
From the thunderous roar of jet engines to the intricate maneuvers of parachute teams, the event was a multisensory experience that captivated attendees of all ages. It was a celebration of service, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of ‘Merica.
Members of the US Army 7th Special Forces Group storm Miami Beach during last year’s festivities. Image Credit: DVIDS Master Sgt. Justin Morelli
A Glimpse into the Future
Events like the Freedom Flyover remind us that honoring the past doesn’t mean standing still—it means charging forward with afterburners lit. As America’s adversaries watch from the shadows, they’d do well to remember what thunder looks like in broad daylight.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.