US Deploys Nuclear-Capable B-2 Bombers to Diego Garcia Amid Rising Tensions
WASHINGTON: The Pentagon has confirmed the deployment of nuclear-capable B-2 stealth bombers to the US-UK military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, positioning them within striking range of potential targets in Yemen and Iran. The move comes as regional tensions escalate, prompting increased US military readiness.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the additional deployment to bolster naval forces in the Middle East. While the Pentagon’s official statement did not specify the aircraft involved, anonymous US officials confirmed that at least four B-2 bombers have been stationed at Diego Garcia. Analysts note that this strategic relocation enhances the US military’s ability to respond rapidly to emerging threats.
*”The United States and its allies remain dedicated to maintaining stability in the CENTCOM region and are fully prepared to counter any attempts—whether by state or non-state actors—to escalate conflict,”* stated Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.
*”Secretary Hegseth has made it clear that any aggression by Iran or its proxies against US personnel or interests will be met with decisive action,”* Parnell added.
CENTCOM (US Central Command) oversees operations across Northeast Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Central and South Asia. The B-2 Spirit, one of the most advanced bombers in the US Air Force, is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear payloads. With only 20 in service, these aircraft are typically reserved for high-priority missions. Notably, the Biden administration previously utilized B-2 bombers in operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen.
