US President Donald Trump announced that the American military bombed three nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, calling it a historic moment for the US, Israel and the world. Trump said that B-2 stealth bombers were deployed in the operation, but did not disclose the specific types of bombs used. The White House and Pentagon have not yet provided further details about the mission.
The United States deployed B-2 stealth bombers for this operation, renowned for their ability to penetrate heavily fortified and deeply buried targets. Here's a closer look at what B-2 stealth bombers are, how deadly they can be, and what makes them so uniquely powerful.
What is B-2 stealth bomber?
The B-2 Spirit stealth bomber is one of the most sophisticated weapons in the US arsenal, capable of penetrating advanced enemy air defenses to deliver precision strikes. It can carry the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a massive 30,000-pound bunker-buster bomb designed to destroy heavily fortified underground targets.
The B-2 Spirit is an American stealth bomber aircraft developed by Northrop Grumman. It is commonly known as the B-2 bomber. It is known for its excellent stealth technology, long flight range and ability to carry heavy weapons. It was first designed in the 1980s and came into full service in 1997.
Since its maiden flight in 1989, the aircraft has remained one of the most survivable in the world, boasting the ability to penetrate the most advanced enemy defence systems, according to its manufacturer, Northrop Grumman.
Why US use B-2 Stealth Bombers to target Iran's nuclear sites?
The US used B-2 stealth bombers to target Iran's nuclear sites primarily because of their unique capabilities to penetrate heavily fortified and deeply buried facilities, such as Iran's Fordow nuclear enrichment site. These bombers are among the few aircraft in the world capable of carrying the 30,000-pound GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a bunker-buster bomb specifically designed to destroy underground nuclear bunkers.
US and Israeli officials determined that these sites, shielded by layers of rock and reinforced concrete, could only be neutralised using this level of precision and power. The B-2's stealth features also allow it to evade advanced Iranian air defense systems, ensuring the mission's success while reducing the risk to pilots.
However, the decision carries serious strategic risks. Iran had explicitly warned it would retaliate if the US became involved in the conflict, raising fears of a broader regional war, and for Trump personally, having won the White House on the promise of keeping America out of costly foreign conflicts and scoffed at the value of American interventionism.
Features of B-2 Bomber
- The B-2 stealth bomber is designed to evade radar detection, thanks to its unique flying-wing structure and radar-absorbent materials. Its shape and special coating make it nearly invisible to enemy tracking systems.
- Capable of carrying up to 18 tons of weaponry, including nuclear bombs, conventional explosives, and precision-guided munitions, it stands among the most lethal aircraft in the world.
- The B-2 can travel approximately 11,000 kilometers without needing to refuel, and with mid-air refueling capabilities, its range extends even further.
- Operated by a crew of just two pilots, it is also one of the costliest military aircraft globally, with a unit price of around USD 2 billion. Critically, the B-2 can carry two massive 15-ton bunker-buster bombs, which only the US has.
How dangerous is the B-2 Bomber?
The stealth capability of the B-2 Bomber enables it to evade enemy radars and air defense systems, allowing it to carry out covert attacks. It can carry both nuclear and conventional weapons, which can cause massive damage. This aircraft can cover thousands of kilometers without stopping and is capable of carrying out precision strikes. The B-2 is designed for quick and covert attacks globally, making it a game-changer in warfare. It is ideal for destroying critical targets such as command centers, air defense systems, and bunkers.
The B-2 was used in the Kosovo War (1999), Afghanistan (2001), the Iraq War (2003), and Libya (2011). Now, 14 years later, it has been used to destroy Iran's nuclear bases.
US has 20 B-2 bombers
The B-2 bomber is one of the most expensive aircraft in the world. The cost of one aircraft is about USD 2 billion. Its maintenance and use is very expensive. The US Air Force also has only 20 B-2 aircraft. The B-2 bomber is extremely dangerous due to its stealth technology, long range, and heavy weapons. However, due to its high cost and limited number, it cannot be used in every mission.
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