Operation Midnight Hammer: Timeline of US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities
Operation Midnight Hammer, the largest B-2 operational strike in U.S. history, was a meticulously planned and executed mission that targeted three key Iranian nuclear facilities. The Pentagon provided details of the operation, which involved a massive deployment of military assets and required precise coordination.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth emphasized that the scope of the operation was intentionally limited, but highlighted the nearly unlimited capabilities of the American military. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, outlined the timeline and tactics employed during the mission.
The operation began with a decoy flight departing at 12:01 a.m. EST, Saturday, with B-2 stealth bombers heading west into the Pacific to deceive Iranian defenses. Meanwhile, the main strike force of seven B-2 Spirit bombers embarked on an 18-hour flight to the target area, refueling multiple times in the air.
As the strike group entered Iranian airspace, a U.S. submarine launched Tomahawk missiles against surface infrastructure targets, while support aircraft cleared the way by sweeping for enemy threats. The main strike force dropped bunker-busters on Fordow and Natanz nuclear facilities, with additional strikes hitting Isfahan.
The return journey saw the aircraft safely exit Iranian airspace without encountering any hostile fire. Operation Midnight Hammer involved over 125 aircraft, including seven B-2 bombers, fighters, tankers, submarines, and reconnaissance aircraft. The U.S. forces deployed approximately 75 precision-guided munitions, including 14 massive ordnance penetrators.
Gen. Caine hailed the operation as a demonstration of the unmatched reach and capability of the U.S. military, showcasing strategic planning and global execution. The mission was a historic achievement, marking the second-longest B-2 mission ever flown and the first operational use of the GBU 57 bombs.
The success of Operation Midnight Hammer underscored the United States’ military prowess and ability to execute complex and high-risk missions. The operation exemplified the military’s readiness and effectiveness in responding to threats and safeguarding national security interests.
