B-52 bomber with active transponder lands in Bahrain

A B-52 bomber whose transponder was deliberately kept on during the flight has landed in Bahrain, according to reports. The landing occurs amid heavy US air activity and ongoing Iranian missile attacks on the Gulf state. Identity confirmed as a B-52 by the reports.

The landing of the B-52 with its transponder actively broadcasting marks the culmination of a significant US bomber deployment. As The Zioneer reported at 18:57, a B-52 was inbound to Bahrain; now, it has arrived, with its transponder signal left on throughout the approach — a transparent, non-stealthy profile. This follows an earlier report (16:15) of a B-52 switching its transponder off over the Mediterranean. Several other B-52s have been active in the region as part of Operation Epic Fury, with multiple bombers reported departing Diego Garcia toward Iran at 18:29 today. The operation comes amid intense Iranian missile attacks on Bahrain and other Gulf states; at 18:46 a report indicated an Iranian missile was approaching the island. The transponder-on profile is consistent with a show of force or a deliberate acknowledgment of the aircraft's presence.

4 developments

1. 22:12 · 10 JunLatest

   Reports persist of a B-52 landing despite earlier transponder miscoding claims.

2. 22:01 · 10 Jun

   Aircraft identified as P-8A Poseidon following transponder error previously reporting B-52

3. 22:00 · 10 Jun

   The aircraft landed with its transponder deliberately left active throughout the flight.

• Strong22:37 · 10 JunUS B-52 Bomber Reported Entering Saudi Airspace, Suggests Imminent Strikes on Iran
• Developing21:46 · 10 JunIranian missile approaching landing in Bahrain, reporter says
• Strong11:54 · 13 JunEight US strategic bombers land in Middle East from UK and Germany bases overnight
• Developing21:54 · 10 JunStrategic bomber lands in Qatar, according to a report

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