B-2 Bombers, F-35 Jets, Carriers: US Military Assets Used in Iran Strikes

The United States deployed an extensive array of advanced military assets during the first 24 hours of its strikes on Iran, marking one of the most significant coordinated operations in recent years.

According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the assault — launched on February 28 under Operation Epic Fury — involved strategic bombers, fifth-generation fighter jets, naval strike groups and advanced missile defence systems. The strikes targeted Iran’s senior leadership and critical military infrastructure.

Among the most prominent assets used were B-2 Spirit stealth bombers. These long-range aircraft, capable of evading radar detection, reportedly flew directly from the United States to carry out precision strikes on hardened ballistic missile facilities. The bombers were armed with 2,000-pound bunker-buster munitions designed to penetrate fortified underground targets.

F-35 stealth fighters, F-22 Raptors, F-16 and F-18 jets were deployed for air superiority and precision attack roles. The operation also included A-10 attack aircraft and EA-18G electronic warfare planes to suppress air defence systems and jam enemy communications.

Naval power formed a major component of the offensive. Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers and refuelling ships were positioned in the region to support sustained air and missile operations. Patriot interceptor systems and THAAD anti-ballistic missile systems were activated to defend US assets and allied territories from retaliatory strikes.

The United States also utilised advanced surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, including RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft, P-8 maritime patrol planes, MQ-9 Reaper drones and airborne early warning and control systems. Communication relay aircraft and refuelling tankers ensured continuous operational capability.

Ground-based systems such as M-142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and counter-drone technologies were also listed as part of the deployment. Heavy transport aircraft, including C-17 Globemaster and C-130 cargo planes, were used for logistics and rapid deployment support.

CENTCOM stated that targets included Iran’s armed forces command centres, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Joint Headquarters, aerospace command facilities, integrated air defence networks, ballistic missile launch sites, naval vessels, submarines and military communications infrastructure.

The strikes reportedly killed several senior Iranian leaders and caused extensive damage to key defence installations. Iranian authorities have stated that over 200 people have died since the beginning of the bombardment.

Tehran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and US-linked sites across the Gulf, escalating the conflict across West Asia. Explosions were reported in multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran.

While US officials indicated that military operations continue, a senior White House source suggested that diplomatic engagement remains a possibility in the future if conditions stabilise.

The scale and sophistication of the deployment underline the seriousness of the confrontation, which now carries significant implications for regional stability and global energy markets.