The B2 Bomber Strike on Iran: All You Need to Know

On June 22, 2025, the United States carried out a major military operation against Iran, targeting its nuclear facilities with B2 Spirit stealth bombers. This event is a significant moment in the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, and it puts the spotlight on the B2 bomber’s unique capabilities. Let’s dive into the details of this historic strike, the aircraft involved, and what it means for the world.

The B2 Spirit: A Stealth Powerhouse

The B2 Spirit, often called the Stealth Bomber, is one of a kind in the U.S. Air Force. It’s sleek, flying wing design and special materials make it nearly invisible to radar. This allows it to slip through enemy defences undetected. The B2 can carry up to 40,000 pounds of weapons, including both conventional bombs and nuclear warheads. It can fly over 6,000 nautical miles without refuelling, and with mid air refuelling, its range is virtually unlimited.

The B2’s story began in the 1970s during the Cold War. The U.S. wanted a bomber that could penetrate Soviet air defences. After years of development and billions of dollars, the first B2 flew in 1989 and became operational in 1997. Only 20 B2s exist, each costing over $2 billion, making them the priciest aircraft ever built (Northrop B2 Spirit). They’ve been used in conflicts like Kosovo and Libya, hitting key targets without being spotted.

Key B2 Specifications

Specification	Details
Wingspan	172 feet
Length	69 feet
Height	17 feet
Top Speed	628 mph (high subsonic)
Range	6,000 nautical miles
Payload	40,000 pounds
Crew	Two (pilot, mission commander)
Unit Cost	~$2 billion

The Strike on Iran’s Nuclear Sites

On June 22, 2025, the U.S. launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The Fordow facility, buried deep under a mountain, was the primary target due to its fortified structure. Nearly half a dozen B2 bombers dropped a dozen 30,000 pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bombs on Fordow, designed to destroy deeply buried targets.

U.S. Navy submarines also fired about 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Natanz and Isfahan. President Donald Trump claimed the strikes “completely and totally obliterated” Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities. However, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation stated that their nuclear program remains functional, with no radioactive contamination reported. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed no radiation spikes and planned an emergency meeting to evaluate the situation.

Timeline of the Strike

Date	Event
June 13, 2025	Israel attacks Iran’s nuclear and military sites, escalating tensions.
June 21, 2025	U.S. B-2 bombers reportedly move to Guam amid rising Middle East tensions.
June 22, 2025	U.S. strikes Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan sites using B2s and missiles.

Why the B2 and MOP Were Chosen

The B2 Spirit is the only aircraft capable of carrying the GBU 57 MOP bomb, a 30,000 pound weapon built to penetrate up to 200 feet of earth or 60 feet of concrete (GBU 57A/B MOP). Each B2 can carry two MOPs, which are GPS guided for precision. The bomb’s ability to burrow deep before exploding makes it ideal for targeting fortified sites like Fordow.

The B2’s stealth technology allows it to evade radar, enabling it to fly over heavily defended Iranian airspace. The bombers likely took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, refuelled mid air, and delivered their payload with pinpoint accuracy. This operation marked the first combat use of the MOP, highlighting its role in tackling hard to reach targets.

MOP Bomb Specifications

Specification	Details
Weight	30,000 pounds
Length	20.5 feet
Diameter	31.5 inches
Warhead	5,300 pounds of explosives
Penetration Capability	200 feet earth, 60 feet concrete
Guidance	GPS

Reactions and Implications

The strikes have triggered strong reactions globally. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated President Trump, stating the attack would “change history.” Israel, which views Iran’s nuclear program as a major threat, had attacked Iranian sites on June 13, setting the stage for U.S. involvement. Iran condemned the U.S. strikes as “outrageous” and warned of “everlasting consequences,” vowing to continue its nuclear program.

Internationally, there’s concern about escalation. The UN Security Council is set to hold an emergency session, and the IAEA’s monitoring suggests no immediate environmental risks. However, the conflicting claims U.S. assertions of total destruction versus Iran’s insistence on minimal damage mean the true impact is unclear. Independent verification is still pending, and analysts warn of potential Iranian retaliation, which could widen the conflict.

From a military perspective, the operation demonstrates the U.S.’s ability to strike fortified targets, sending a message to other nations with similar facilities. The use of B2s and MOPs emphasises the strategic value of maintaining advanced stealth and penetration capabilities.

The B2 Spirit’s role in the June 22, 2025, strike on Iran showcases its unmatched stealth and firepower. The operation, targeting Iran’s nuclear sites, has heightened global tensions and raised questions about the extent of the damage. As the world watches for Iran’s response and further international developments, the B2 remains a critical tool in the U.S. military’s arsenal, capable of delivering decisive strikes in high stakes missions.

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Sources : Reuters , Al Jazeera , AP News