US stealth bombers launch: is there a risk of an attack on Iran?

US stealth bombers launch: is there a risk of an attack on Iran?

The air over Missouri is anything but calm right now. B-2 stealth bombers have just left Whiteman Air Force Base and headed west across the Pacific. These unexpected flights have caused speculation in recent days, fueled by reports from the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post were heated. According to this information, the maneuvers could be preparation for a possible military strike against Iran.

However, the US government emphasizes that there is no official order for an attack. Still, government and military officials plan for President Donald Trump to decide on possible steps against Iran in the next two weeks. These flights could also serve as leverage to achieve diplomatic solutions.

The B-2 bombers in detail

The Northrop B-2 Spirit, also known as the stealth bomber, is a technological tour de force designed with cutting-edge stealth technology. With a payload limit of over 18 tons, these aircraft can drop conventional and thermonuclear weapons. In particular, the 13.6 tonne bunker buster bomb is used to destroy critical underground facilities, such as those in Fordo.

With a range of over 6,000 nautical miles (around 11,000 km), the B-2 bombers can cover impressive distances, but normally require aerial refueling for further missions. Regulations state that the approximately 20 US Air Force aircraft are usually based at Whiteman Air Force Base, which is about 11,000 kilometers from Fordo. Currently, some of the bombers may be on their way to Andersen Air Force Base on Guam. This base is located about 9,500 kilometers from Fordo, while satellite images show that some B-2 bombers were also temporarily stationed at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, which is only about 5,000 kilometers from Fordo.

Technical finesse and history

Development of the B-2 bomber began in the 1980s when the need for an advanced bomber was recognized. In total, only 21 B-2 bombers were manufactured by the end of production in 2000, which is due to the high cost of around USD 2.13 billion per unit. This example is the only one in the world capable of carrying large air-to-surface standoff weapons in a stealth configuration. Powered by GE F118-GE-100 turbofan engines, the B-2 Air Force can perform missions at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet (15,000 m).

The B-2 has participated in various conflicts over the centuries, from the Kosovo War to operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The US Air Force plans to keep the B-2 in service until 2032, when the newest model, the Northrop Grumman B-21 Raider, is ready for deployment.

At a time when geopolitical tensions are running high, it remains to be seen how the situation surrounding the B-2 bombers and their operations will develop. The coming weeks could be crucial for security and diplomacy in the region.