Details of the B-2 Stealth Bombers’ Long-Range Mission to Iran

The advanced American B-2 stealth bombers, which recently targeted Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, are equipped with amenities such as toilets, microwaves, and coolers for snacks, ensuring crew comfort during their lengthy flights. The mission involved a seven-plane fleet that departed from Whiteman Air Force Base near Kansas City, embarking on an 18-hour journey across the globe, refueling multiple times mid-air.

Designed initially to deliver nuclear payloads during the Cold War, the B-2’s cockpit features mini fridges and microwaves to keep crew members alert and nourished. The aircraft’s wingspan measures 172 feet, with a crew of only two pilots, leveraging automation to manage long flights. During the operation, pilots took turns resting while maintaining radio silence to evade detection.

The mission, codenamed “Midnight Hammer,” saw the bombers flying in coordination with escort fighters and support aircraft, executing a complex maneuver with precise timing. The operation’s target inside Iran was attacked at 6:40 p.m. ET, with a lead B-2 dropping two GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs on strategic nuclear sites in Fordow. This was the first use of these 15-ton weapons in combat.

Following the initial attack, the remaining bombers targeted additional areas, dropping a total of 14 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs). Support aircraft and fighters joined the fleet to ensure mission success, with the operation marked by high precision and minimal communication to maintain stealth. President Trump announced that no other military could have executed such a complex attack, emphasizing the unique capabilities of the U.S. forces.