In a significant military operation, the U.S. Air Force successfully targeted Iranian nuclear facilities using B-2 Spirit bombers. This operation, named Midnight Hammer, took place on a Saturday evening and involved seven stealth bombers dropping 14 massive GBU-57 bunker buster bombs on key sites, including the Fordow nuclear enrichment facility.
The mission began just after midnight when the bombers departed from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri. After a lengthy flight of over 18 hours across the Atlantic and Mediterranean, they reached Iranian airspace around 6:40 p.m. During this critical moment, the aircraft faced the risk of losing their stealth advantage, making them vulnerable to enemy radar and potential counterattacks.
As the pilots prepared to release their bombs, they had to open the weapons bay doors, altering the aircraft’s shape and increasing their visibility. This tense moment was marked by the bombers rising sharply as they dropped their payloads, each weighing 15 tons. The pilots, who are highly trained and experienced, managed to execute the strikes effectively, hitting not only Fordow but also other significant sites in Natanz and Isfahan.
Supporting the airstrikes, U.S. submarines launched over two dozen Tomahawk cruise missiles aimed at Isfahan. This operation marked the first combat use of the GBU-57 bombs, which are designed to penetrate deep underground bunkers.
In the aftermath, satellite images revealed extensive damage to the Fordow facility, prompting strong reactions from Iranian officials. The Iranian Foreign Minister condemned the attacks as lawless and warned of serious consequences.
The B-2s completed their mission and exited Iranian airspace by 7:30 p.m., wrapping up a grueling 37-hour flight. The bombers are part of a fleet of 19, making them one of the most expensive military aircraft in history. During their long mission, the crews had access to amenities like a microwave and a bathroom, allowing them to take turns resting, although they had to remain in the cockpit during critical phases of the flight.
This operation highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the U.S. commitment to countering threats posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The precision and scale of the strikes demonstrate the advanced capabilities of the U.S. military in executing complex and high-stakes operations.
