DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Recent analysis of satellite imagery has revealed the deployment of six nuclear-capable B-2 Spirit bombers to Camp Thunder Bay located on Diego Garcia, an island in the Indian Ocean. These powerful bombers are known for their use in combat operations, such as targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen, which aligns with ongoing U.S. military activities in the region.
The strategic position of Diego Garcia allows for potential strikes against targets in Yemen or Iran, should tensions escalate. There are current concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and the B-2 bombers could potentially be used to target underground nuclear facilities if needed.
Approximately one-third of the total B-2 fleet owned by the United States Air Force has now been stationed on Diego Garcia; only 19 B-2s are active, with the original fleet including 21 planes at first. The U.S. military has only confirmed one instance where these bombers have been used in Yemen since hostilities in Gaza between Israel and Hamas intensified.
The B-2 bomber is operated by a crew of two and can cover substantial distances, flying up to 6,000 nautical miles without needing refueling. Its wings span 172 feet, and its ability to carry weaponry is extensive, including the formidable GBU-57—a bomb designed to penetrate deeply fortified underground facilities, crucial for future planning against threats such as Iran’s nuclear program.
Thus far, America’s intensified airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties within Yemen, with Houthi reports citing the death toll has hit 65. Since March 15, around 200 airstrikes have been noted in the region, illustrating the rigorous campaign against the rebels.
Overall, the B-2 bomber, with a ceiling capacity reaching 50,000 feet and a weight of 12,300 kilograms for its most potent bombs, represents a high-investment asset, costing approximately $1.1 billion each. Such deployments underscore the severe regional instability and the continuous strategic military calculations shaping the U.S.’s defense posture in the Middle East.