The U.S. Air Force has revealed unprecedented details about Operation Midnight Hammer, a groundbreaking 30-hour stealth bombing mission that targeted Iran's nuclear facilities.

According to Fox News, Col. Josh Wiitala and his crews at Whiteman Air Force Base coordinated 4,000 personnel working in complete secrecy to execute the first combat deployment of America's 30,000-pound bunker buster bombs. The operation marked a pivotal moment in military aviation history as seven B-2 bombers successfully penetrated Iranian airspace to deliver their devastating payload.

The mission required meticulous planning and involved selecting 14 of the most experienced pilots from several dozen who were qualified to fly the sophisticated stealth aircraft. The chosen crews had extensive training through multiple Red Flag exercises and major operations, ensuring they were prepared for this historic undertaking.

Elite Crew Selection and Mission Preparation

The operation's success hinged on maintaining absolute secrecy, with thousands of support staff working behind the scenes across various specialties. The base commander prioritized experience above all other factors when selecting the flight crews for this critical mission.

The selected pilots demonstrated exceptional readiness and understood the historic significance of their assignment. Col. Wiitala emphasized to his team that this would be remembered as one of the most consequential raids in their lifetime.

Each B-2 bomber was crewed by two pilots who had to maintain peak performance throughout the grueling 30-hour mission. The crews relied on energy drinks and took turns resting on the metal floor behind their seats during the long flight.

Complex Aerial Refueling and Technical Challenges

The mission required precise coordination during multiple aerial refueling operations, which Wiitala described as the most challenging aspect of piloting the B-2. The process involved positioning the aircraft just 10 feet below the refueling tanker for up to 30 minutes.

The operation utilized the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a specialized 30,000-pound bomb designed to destroy deeply buried targets. The weapons required extensive training and certification for loading crews, who underwent 21 days of specialized instruction.

The aging B-2 fleet, consisting of 20 aircraft each valued at $2 billion, proved they could still effectively penetrate modern air defenses. However, military leaders acknowledge that the newer B-21 bomber will eventually replace these veteran aircraft.

Strategic Impact and Iranian Response

The operation successfully targeted two key Iranian nuclear facilities, with 12 MOPs striking the Fordow enrichment plant and two hitting the Natanz facility. Israeli forces had previously neutralized Iran's air defenses, creating optimal conditions for the U.S. bombing mission.

Recent analysis from international nuclear experts confirms that Iran's capability to produce weapons-grade uranium has been severely compromised. The strikes destroyed nearly 22,000 gas centrifuges across three enrichment sites.

Iran's response to the devastating attack has been notably restrained, limited to a single warning strike against a U.S. base in Qatar that resulted in no casualties. The operation's success represents a significant setback to Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Mission Legacy and Future Implications

The unprecedented mission demonstrated the continued effectiveness of America's strategic bomber force and the precision of its bunker-buster capabilities. Col. Wiitala considers the safe return of all crews as the most significant achievement of his 22-year military career.

The operation's success has reshaped the strategic landscape in the Middle East, with Iran's nuclear program suffering its most significant setback in 15 years. However, experts remain cautious about declaring a complete victory, noting that Iran may have undisclosed nuclear assets.

The mission's flawless execution has set new standards for long-range strategic operations, while highlighting the need for continued modernization of America's bomber fleet. The upcoming B-21 program will build upon these capabilities, ensuring the U.S. maintains its strategic advantage in future conflicts.