The United States deployed its most advanced strategic bomber, the B-2 Spirit, in an operation targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. Former President Donald Trump announced the operation via Truth Social, calling it a “great success.”
The B-2 Spirit, the most expensive and advanced bomber in military aviation history, was reportedly used to strike critical Iranian nuclear infrastructure. The details of the operation were first made public by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that the attacks on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan were carried out successfully.
B-2 Spirit: Invisible to Radar
Developed by Northrop Grumman, the B-2 Spirit uses stealth technology to evade enemy radar systems and can carry out long-range missions undetected. Unlike conventional aircraft, its flying wing design significantly reduces radar cross-section.
Its radar-absorbent coatings and concealed engine intakes and exhausts make the B-2 one of the most elusive combat aircraft in service today. The carbon fibre composite body disperses electromagnetic energy as heat, allowing it to operate with minimal detection.
22 Tonnes of Combat Payload in a Single Aircraft
With an operational range of 11,100 km (extendable via aerial refuelling), the B-2 is capable of intercontinental missions. Powered by four General Electric F118-GE-100 engines, it generates 31,388 kg of thrust and can carry up to 22,700 kg of ordnance in two internal bays.
Its arsenal includes:
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16 B83 nuclear bombs
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80 Mark 82 general-purpose bombs
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80 JDAM precision-guided bombs
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16 AGM-158 JASSM cruise missiles
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GBU-57 MOP bunker-buster bombs
The Most Expensive Aircraft Program in Military History
With a total programme cost of $78 billion, the B-2 Spirit stands as one of the costliest military aviation projects ever. The average cost per aircraft is approximately $2.1 billion. Only 21 units were built, and they are currently stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri.
Of these, 16 are in active service, 2 are undergoing maintenance, and 2 are used for testing. The operational readiness rate is around 64%, and each B-2 requires a dedicated team of 15 technicians. The average annual flight time per aircraft is about 180 hours.
Operational History and Future Plans
The B-2 Spirit has previously been used in:
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Kosovo (1999)
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Afghanistan (2001)
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Iraq (2003)
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Libya (2011)
It is expected to be gradually replaced by the B-21 Raider in the 2030s. The B-21 is projected to cost $700 million per unit, with over 100 planned for production.
B-2 Back in the Spotlight with Iran Strike
According to Trump’s claims, the recent operation targeting strategic Iranian nuclear sites showcased the U.S. Air Force’s high-precision, low-detection-risk strike capabilities.
The potential fallout from this action may have widespread implications for regional security, global energy markets, and international diplomacy.
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