B-2 Bomber Crews Identified in Iran Strike

Air Force and Air National Guard aviators completed the mission.

Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 11:37 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Steve Spears

An R-12 hydrant service vehicle refuels a B-2 Spirit during hot-pit refueling operations at Whiteman Air Force Base. [Credit: U.S. Air Force/Staff Sgt. Joshua Hastings]

Key Takeaways:

The U.S. Air Force conducted "Operation Midnight Hammer," a 37-hour, 7,000-mile B-2 Spirit bomber strike against Iran's Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear facilities, involving diverse active duty and Air National Guard crews.
The mission, described as carefully planned, deployed GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker-busters for their first combat use, utilized decoy tactics, and was supported by a 125-aircraft force package.
Crews observed an exceptionally bright explosion at the target, and while the exact post-strike damage remains disputed, the returning bomber crews received an emotional welcome from their families at Whiteman Air Force Base.

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The U.S. Air Force has provided new details about the bomber crews involved in the recent strike on Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, confirming participation from both active duty and Air National Guard personnel flying the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.

According to General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the aviators came from units including the Missouri Air National Guard and represented a wide range of experience, from captains to colonels.

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