B-2A Spirit strategic stealth bombers took off from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri and are heading to the American military base on the island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean.
This was reported by the UK Defence Journal.
US deploys B-2A Spirit aircraft
According to the publication, the bombers are being escorted by eight KC-135 Stratotanker tanker aircraft that have joined them over Kansas. The redeployment comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
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The US has already deployed dozens of combat aircraft to the region in recent weeks, including fighters, tankers and reconnaissance aircraft. Two US Navy aircraft carriers are also taking part in the operation.
The B-2 Spirit is one of the most technologically advanced aircraft in the United States, capable of carrying nuclear weapons and 13-tonne Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker busters. Experts believe that the underground facility in Fordow, which is part of the Iranian nuclear program, could be a potential target.
The US has 19 B-2 aircraft in service. They are planned to be used until 2032, after which they will be replaced by B-21 Raiders.
Recall that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran is ready to resort to diplomatic steps again in the context of discussing its nuclear program only after Israel stops attacks.
