JUNE 25, 2026 – One year ago, Airmen across the Eighth Air Force helped execute Operation Midnight Hammer, a historic long-range strike mission that demonstrated the reach, capability and effectiveness of America’s global strike force.
Conducted on June 24, 2025, OMH became the largest B-2 Spirit mission in U.S. history and the largest B-2 precision strike ever conducted.
The operation marked the first combat employment of the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, demonstrating the unique ability of long-range stealth bombers to strike heavily fortified targets anywhere in the world.
Whiteman Air Force Base Airmen flew one of the longest and most complex operational strike missions in the aircraft’s history — seven B-2 aircraft launched from the United States and struck targets halfway around the world and returned home more than 30 hours later.
They maintained operational surprise throughout the mission, reached their targets without intercept by Iranian aircraft or an effective air defense response, and demonstrated the ability of U.S. forces to project combat power globally through a highly coordinated operation thousands of miles from home station.
“Operation Midnight Hammer demonstrated the lethality and persistence of our Air Force’s long-range strike capability. The swift and decisive success of this operation is a result of the intense planning and flawless execution by the men and women of Air Force Global Strike Command and the Mighty Eighth Air Force. These accomplishments are a testament to the resolve and dedication our Airmen display each and every day to our nation.” Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, Eighth Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center Commander
While the B-2 became the public face of the operation, the mission’s success depended on far more than the aircraft itself. OMH highlighted the teamwork required to conduct modern global strike operations.
The mission brought together organizations across the Joint Force, including U.S. Strategic Command, U.S. Central Command, Air Mobility Command, Air Forces Central, Space Force partners, Guard and Reserve units, and numerous supporting agencies.
“Behind every phase of the operation were Airmen whose expertise and dedication made the mission possible,” said Chief Master Sgt. Brandon M. Wolfgang, command chief master sergeant of Eighth Air Force and senior enlisted leader for the Joint-Global Strike Operations Center. “While the aircraft drew much of the public attention, the success ultimately came down to Airmen across multiple specialties working together to deliver results.”
One year later, OMH remains a powerful example of the value of long-range strike capabilities and the role they play in supporting national security objectives. The mission demonstrated that penetrating strike platforms remain an essential component of modern warfare and reinforced the unique flexibility and global reach provided by the bomber force, capabilities that remain critical in today’s operating environment.
For the Mighty Eighth, the operation also represents the latest chapter in a legacy carried forward by generations of Airmen.
Since its activation in 1942, the Eighth Air Force has stood at the forefront of American airpower. From strategic bombing campaigns during World War II to today’s global strike missions, Airmen have embraced innovation, mastered new technologies and adapted alongside an ever-changing strategic landscape.
“As we approach the 85th anniversary of the Mighty Eighth, Operation Midnight Hammer reminds us that while technology and missions evolve, our foundation remains the same,” Neuman said. “Our strength comes from our Airmen. Their readiness, teamwork and dedication continue the legacy built by those who came before us and ensure we remain ready for the challenges ahead.”
As global security demands continue to evolve, the Eighth Air Force remains prepared to provide combatant commanders and national leaders with the capabilities that have defined the organization for nearly eight decades.
By Tech. Sgt. Jessi Roth
Eighth Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center Public Affairs