After several days of rumors, the United States has officially entered the Israel-Iran conflict. The US military carried out airstrikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, raising tensions in the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes and said the US used powerful B-2 stealth bombers to target the nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. He called the attack a “historic moment” for the US, Israel, and the world.
Trump said the US dropped six bunker buster bombs on the Fordow site and fired 30 Tomahawk missiles on the other two sites.
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What is a B-2 Stealth Bomber?
The B-2 Stealth Bomber is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, used by the US Air Force since 1989. It’s famous for being nearly invisible to enemy radar due to its special shape and materials that absorb radar waves.
- It can fly very long distances—up to 6,000 nautical miles without needing to refuel.
- It has a massive bomb-carrying capacity and can fly at high altitudes.
- Its unique flying-wing design and low heat signature make it very hard to detect, giving it a radar signature similar to a small bird.
Why Did the US Use B-2 Bombers in Iran?
Rumors began when B-2 bombers were seen flying to Guam. Many guessed that the US might use them to bomb underground nuclear sites in Iran. Trump later confirmed that the bombers were used to strike three nuclear facilities, including Fordow.
One of the main reasons the US used the B-2 bomber is that it’s the only US aircraft that can carry the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) — a super-strong bunker buster bomb designed to destroy deep underground bunkers.
According to reports, the B-2 flew non-stop for about 37 hours from Missouri to Iran and back, refueling multiple times mid-air.
Also Read: What Is a Cluster Bomb? Banned Weapon Behind Iran’s June 19 Missile Strike on Israel
What is a Bunker Buster Bomb (MOP)?
The Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) is a very powerful bomb built to destroy targets deep underground, such as nuclear bunkers.
- It’s guided by GPS, so it can hit precise targets.
- It’s more powerful than older bombs like the BLU-109 and GBU-28.
- The US Air Force has tested the MOP successfully in New Mexico by hitting targets built to simulate real-world bunkers.
To strike Iran’s hidden nuclear sites, the US used the B-2 Stealth Bomber, known for its ability to sneak past radar and carry heavy weapons like the Massive Ordnance Penetrator. These attacks mark a serious escalation in the ongoing tension between Iran, Israel, and now the United States.
