US long-range B-2 stealth bombers conducted air strikes early Thursday morning targeting underground bunkers used by Yemen’s Houthis, officials reported.
The extent of the damage from these strikes is still unclear. This marks one of the first instances of the B-2 Spirit being deployed against the Houthis, who have been attacking ships in the Red Sea over the past year in support of Gaza amid ongoing Israeli aggression.
According to the Houthis’ Al Masirah satellite news channel, strikes were reported around Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and the Houthi stronghold of Saada, although they did not provide immediate information on damage or casualties.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the B-2 bombers targeted “five hardened underground weapons storage locations in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.” He described the operation as a demonstration of the US’s capability to reach facilities that adversaries attempt to protect, regardless of how deeply they are buried or fortified.
While Austin and Central Command did not immediately assess the damage, initial reports indicated that no civilians were killed in the strikes.
The Red Sea has become increasingly dangerous for shipping since the Houthis began targeting vessels in the area, which previously handled $1 trillion in cargo annually.
Since the escalation of conflict in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have attacked over 80 merchant ships with missiles and drones, seizing one vessel and sinking two, resulting in the deaths of four sailors.
Many missiles and drones have been intercepted by a US-led coalition or failed to reach their intended targets, which have included Western military ships.
The B-2 Spirit bombers are among the most advanced aircraft in the US military, designed to evade enemy detection and operate deep within hostile territory. Their stealth technology minimizes radar and infrared signatures, making them nearly invisible to defenses, allowing for precise strikes on critical targets with reduced risk.
With a range of 6,000 nautical miles without refueling, the B-2 can conduct long-range missions globally, providing the US military with a strategic edge for rapid responses to emerging threats. The aircraft can carry both nuclear and conventional weapons, enhancing its versatility in combat.
Since its introduction in 1993 by Northrop Grumman, the B-2 has played a vital role in the US military’s long-range strike capabilities, demonstrating effectiveness in major conflicts, including those in Kosovo and Iraq, by targeting key infrastructure while maintaining a low profile.
