While the US continues to increase its threats against Iran, it also continues its air operations against the Houthis based in Yemen. In this context, the US Air Force has deployed B-2 Spirit strategic bombers to the strategically important island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. This move is an important step taken by the US to strengthen its global military power and military strategies in the region.
B-2 Spirit Bombers and Deployment to Diego Garcia
It has been reported that at least 2 to 5 aircraft of US B-7 Spirit bombers have been sent from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri to Diego Garcia on British soil. Diego Garcia has previously been a base used for air strikes in the Middle East region. Now, the US is expanding its military power projection by increasing its military presence in the region.
The deployment of B-2s to Diego Garcia is based on data shared by military intelligence followers. Information obtained from open sources that two B-2s landed in Diego Garcia and two others departed shows that this operation was carried out quickly. In addition, satellite images of C-2 military transport planes and KC-130 tanker planes deployed to Diego Garcia also reveal the scope of this deployment.
Military Dispatch and Major Operation Concerns
The dispatch of B-2 Spirit aircraft to Diego Garcia is considered as preparations for a major military operation. In particular, the recent increase in US attacks on the Houthis, who are supported by Iran, is cited as one of the reasons for this dispatch. The US launched a major airstrike on March 16 following the Houthis' threats to continue their attacks on Israeli ships over the Red Sea. This situation further increased tensions in the region and revealed the need for the US to strengthen its regional military power.
US and UK Attacks on the Houthis
The US and UK have been at the forefront of airstrikes against the Houthis for over a year. Last week, the Houthis announced at least three unsuccessful attacks on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. These attacks are striking as actions that affect the military balance in the region and can quickly escalate into military operations. The US and UK use strategic bombers and other military hardware to counter such threats and maintain stability in the region.
The Distance Between Diego Garcia and Yemen and the B-2's Menchile
It is stated that the deployment of B-2 Spirit bombers to Diego Garcia poses a great threat to the Houthis and their Iranian supporters. Although the distance between Diego Garcia and Yemen is more than 3.600 kilometers, the B-2 has a range of up to 9.600 kilometers. This shows that B-2 aircraft can carry out operations against the Houthis quickly and effectively. In addition, this strategic move is considered a step aimed at reinforcing the military power and strategic superiority of the United States in the region.
Global Military Power and Strategic Investments
The US deployment of B-2 Spirit bombers to Diego Garcia is a significant development that could change the course of military strategies and international relations in the region. This step aims to consolidate the US’s global military power, accelerate operations against Iran and the Houthis, and ensure stability in the region. The expansion of military operations in the region, while drawing a reaction particularly from the Houthis and Iran, also leads to the reshaping of regional power balances.
