The United States is strengthening its military presence by deploying B-2 bombers in Diego Garcia, signaling possible action against Iran.
The United States recently deployed several B-2 Spirit stealth bombers to the Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean. This military maneuver comes at a time of growing tensions with Iran, particularly regarding its nuclear program and its support for the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The B-2 Spirit, capable of carrying conventional and nuclear weapons, is designed to penetrate enemy air defenses thanks to its stealth. The positioning of these aircraft at Diego Garcia places Iran and Yemen within striking range, offering the United States strategic flexibility for potential operations in the region.
Deployment of B-2s at Diego Garcia: a demonstration of American force
The United States recently strengthened its military presence in the Indian Ocean by deploying several B-2 Spirit stealth bombers to the Diego Garcia base. According to satellite images dated March 25, 2025, at least three B-2s were visible on the tarmac, accompanied by seven KC-135 Stratotanker refueling planes. Reports also suggest the presence of up to four other B-2s in reinforced hangars, bringing the potential total to seven aircraft.
The B-2 Spirit, designed by Northrop Grumman, is a long-range strategic bomber with advanced stealth capabilities. It can carry up to 23 tons of ordnance, including conventional and nuclear bombs, and has a flight range of 11,000 kilometers without refueling, which can be extended through in-flight refueling.
Geopolitical context: growing tensions with Iran
This deployment comes at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump recently sent a firm letter to the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, demanding a new nuclear agreement within two months, under threat of unspecified “consequences”. At the same time, the United States has intensified its strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, supported by Tehran, in response to their persistent attacks on American and allied targets.
Diego Garcia: a strategic asset for American operations
The Diego Garcia base, located more than 3,700 kilometers from Iran, offers the United States a strategic position for conducting operations in the Middle East while remaining out of range of Iranian missiles, whose maximum range is estimated at around 2,000 kilometers. This location also allows for increased operational flexibility, with infrastructure capable of accommodating strategic bombers and logistical support aircraft.
The potential consequences of the deployment
The positioning of the B-2s at Diego Garcia sends a clear message to Iran and its allies. These aircraft, capable of carrying the 13,600-kilogram Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bomb, are specially designed to destroy deeply buried and reinforced targets, such as Iranian nuclear facilities. This show of force could either encourage Iran to return to the negotiating table or exacerbate tensions, increasing the risk of military escalation in the region.
Military experts believe that this deployment is intended to dissuade Iran from pursuing its nuclear program and supporting militant groups in the region. However, this strategy carries risks, particularly that of provoking an aggressive reaction from Tehran. Iran has already warned that any attack on its nuclear facilities would result in an immediate and massive response, potentially leading to a widespread regional conflict.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.