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
- GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP)
- 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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