US Deploys B-2 Bombers Amid Tensions with Iran

US President Donald Trump/Photo: White House via Wikimedia Commons

JAKARTA - The B-2 stealth bomber and other US aircraft capable of attacking Iran remain at a higher level of readiness than usual, while the Pentagon continues to strengthen the presence of military assets in the Middle East region, The New York Times reported.

The report quoted a senior US official who asked not to be named as saying that the Pentagon raised the bombers' alert status almost a month ago.

The US-based aircraft can be used for a possible attack on Iranian nuclear or ballistic missile facilities if diplomatic efforts fail. As reported by Anodalu, US President Donald Trump previously warned that the US could attack Iran if the country refused to limit its nuclear program.

But senior US national security officials are reported to have encouraged Trump to delay military action until US forces in the region were better prepared for both offense and defense.

Some 30,000 to 40,000 American troops spread across the Middle East, including at eight permanent bases, are said to lack air defense systems to protect them from possible retaliatory attacks.

Washington has also expanded its naval presence in the region. The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier battle group and several guided missile destroyers are part of a group of about a dozen US ships deployed in the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, Red Sea and eastern Mediterranean to strengthen military posture amid rising tensions.

The latest types of fighter aircraft deployed include F-35 and F/A-18 jets capable of reaching strike ranges inside Iran. The US has also sent more F-15E strike jets to the region, according to US officials.

Meanwhile, military analysts say preparations for major operations are often marked by an increase in the number of aerial refueling tankers as well as electronic warfare aircraft escorting bombers.

Flight tracking data showed additional aircraft relocation steps, including tankers and reconnaissance aircraft, moving closer to or entering the area.

In addition, analysts say that the transfer of ballistic missile submarines that usually operate in the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea or the Arabian Sea could be an indicator of offensive planning. The submarines are capable of carrying many Tomahawk cruise missiles that can increase the US attack capacity if needed.

White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said Trump "is putting all options on the table with respect to Iran," and decisions will be made based on national security interests.

Iran insists its nuclear program is for civilian purposes. US officials say this military buildup is intended to ensure readiness and prevent retaliation if diplomatic efforts fail.