The US has deployed B-1B strategic bombers to strike targets in Iran from bases in Britain, according to the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS). The US has also reinforced the region with F-35A, F-15E, and F-16 fighter squadrons, two aircraft carriers, and over 25 vessels, while European air forces are positioning for potential evacuation of diplomatic staff and civilians.
The US has escalated its military campaign against Iran, with B-1B strategic bombers now striking targets from bases in Britain, according to the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) data center, as reported by N12. This latest development follows the first confirmed use of B-1 bombers in the campaign just a day earlier, and includes a broader force buildup with F-35A, F-15E, and F-16 squadrons, two aircraft carriers, and over 25 naval vessels.
On Wednesday, July 22, at 06:59 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported that a US B-1 bomber had struck Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets overnight, departing from a base in the United Kingdom. The initial reports from Axios and i24NEWS were later confirmed by senior US officials, who verified that B-1 bombers had participated in the strikes. The use of the strategic bomber, capable of carrying two dozen 2,000-pound bombs, was described as a significant escalation.
As The Zioneer reported earlier today at 10:34 Jerusalem, the US intensified its campaign with B-1 heavy bomber strikes on the 12th consecutive night of operations. The new INSS report adds details on the operational base and the extent of the regional force buildup, which includes European air forces positioning for potential evacuation of diplomatic staff and civilians.
The specific targets struck by the B-1Bs and the damage inflicted remain unconfirmed. The INSS report does not provide details on the number of sorties or immediate effects.
16 developments
- DevelopingNYT: US places B-2, B-52 bombers on full alert, tankers move toward Mideast
- DevelopingOSINT sources: US aircraft concentration over Persian Gulf indicates imminent Iran strikes
- StrongNew York Post: US stations two aircraft carriers in Gulf of Oman as pressure on Iran grows
- DevelopingIranian report: At least 13 US military aircraft moving in and out of Middle East
Source and signal
- Open-source intake