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USA ATTACKS IRAN

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USA ATTACKS IRAN

Date of Event: June 22, 2025

Context: U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure using B-2 Spirit stealth bombers

Why in the News?

  • The United States, under President Donald Trump, launched a precision airstrike on Iranian nuclear facilities, targeting 3 key sites including the Fordow Enrichment Facility.
  • The attack involved the deployment of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, highlighting its strategic role in U.S. military operations.

WHAT IS THE B-2 SPIRIT?

  • Type: Long-range stealth bomber
  • Manufacturer: Northrop Grumman
  • First Flight: 1989
  • Total Units Produced: 21
  • Cost: ~$2.1 billion per unit
  • Crew: 2 pilots

Key Features:

  • Stealth Capability: Bat-wing design + radar-absorbing material → near-invisible to radar
  • Automation: High automation reduces human workload and increases mission survivability
  • Radar Cross-Section: Comparable to a small bird

  • Mission Objective: Destroy deeply buried and fortified nuclear facilities (e.g., Fordow)
  • Weapon Used:
    • GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP)
      • Weight: 30,000 lbs (~13,600 kg)
      • Purpose: Designed to penetrate hardened underground bunkers
  • Strategic Advantage:
    • Only aircraft in U.S. fleet capable of carrying MOP
    • Precision strike capability + stealth = essential for bypassing Iran’s air defences

 SPECIFICATIONS & CAPABILITIES

Feature Details
Range 6,000+ nautical miles (11,000+ km)
Payload Capacity 40,000+ lbs (18,144 kg)
Speed High subsonic
Refuelling Capable of mid-air refuelling for extended missions

ARMAMENT CAPABILITIES

  • Conventional Bombs:
    • JDAMs (Joint Direct Attack Munitions): GPS-guided, high accuracy
    • JSOW (Joint Standoff Weapons): Glide bombs; long-range engagement
    • JASSM / JASSM-ER (Cruise Missiles): Range up to 805 km
  • Nuclear Bombs:
    • Can carry up to 16 B83 nuclear bombs

SIGNIFICANCE IN MODERN WELFARE

  • Offers strategic deterrence and operational flexibility
  • Plays a vital role in first-strike capabilities and deep-strike missions
  • Reinforces U.S. nuclear triad (Land-based missiles, Submarine-launched missiles, Strategic bombers)

 

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