The United States has deployed at least six B-2 stealth bombers to the island of Diego Garcia, conducting strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.
The United States has positioned around 30% of its fleet of B-2 stealth bombers at Diego Garcia to conduct operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen. These aircraft, capable of carrying GBU-57/B bunker buster bombs, are intended to destroy fortified underground infrastructure. This deployment is part of a broader strategy of military reinforcement in the Middle East, including the dispatch of aircraft carriers and other fighter planes, in response to growing tensions with Iran and its regional allies.
Deployment of B-2 bombers to Diego Garcia
The recent deployment of B-2 stealth bombers to the Diego Garcia base represents a significant increase in the US military presence in the Indian Ocean. Satellite images dated April 2, 2025 show at least six B-2s stationed on the island. This number is significant, considering that the US Air Force only has 20 aircraft of this type, which means that approximately 30% of the total fleet is now positioned in this region.
The Diego Garcia base, located approximately 4,700 kilometers from the Arabian Peninsula, offers a strategic position for air operations in the Middle East. The B-2s, with a flight range of over 11,000 kilometers without refueling, can reach distant targets non-stop, thus strengthening the United States’ ability to project military power in the region.
B-2 capability to use the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator bomb
The B-2s are currently the only American aircraft certified to use the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bomb, a 13,600-kilogram munition designed to destroy deeply buried and fortified targets. The GBU-57/B can penetrate up to 60 meters of reinforced concrete before detonating, making it particularly effective against the underground facilities used by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
Each B-2 can carry two of these bombs, providing a significant strike capability against hardened targets. The use of these munitions in the Yemeni context aims to neutralize the Houthis’ underground infrastructure, including weapons depots and command centers, thus reducing their operational capacity.
US military buildup in the Middle East
In parallel with the deployment of the B-2s, the United States has reinforced its military presence in the region by sending additional aircraft carriers. The USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group has been redirected to the Middle East to join the USS Harry S. Truman, whose deployment has been extended. This concentration of naval forces is intended to deter Iran and support operations against the Houthis.
In addition, F-35 fighter jets and A-10 ground attack aircraft have been deployed to strengthen US air capabilities in the region. These measures reflect a strategy aimed at maintaining air superiority and responding quickly to emerging threats.
Strategic consequences and implications
This military build-up has major implications for regional stability. Iran, the main supporter of the Houthis, perceived these moves as a direct threat. Iranian officials warned neighboring countries not to support US actions, or they would be considered hostile. This situation exacerbates the already high tensions between Washington and Tehran, increasing the risk of military escalation.
Operationally, the use of B-2s and MOPs demonstrates the US’s willingness to effectively neutralize underground threats. However, these actions could lead to retaliation by the Houthis or Iran, including asymmetric or cyberattacks against US and allied interests in the region.
Financial cost of operations
The ongoing military operations against the Houthis have a considerable financial cost. In three weeks, the expenses related to these actions have approached one billion dollars. This amount includes the operational costs of deployments, the use of precision munitions and the maintenance of forces on the ground. This financial burden raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such operations, especially in a context of budgetary constraints.
The deployment of B-2 stealth bombers to Diego Garcia and their use in strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen illustrate the US determination to use advanced military means to respond to regional threats. However, this strategy carries the risk of escalation and incurs significant costs, both financial and political. The situation remains complex, requiring continuous evaluation of actions and their potential consequences for the stability of the Middle East.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.