F-35 Stealth Aircraft Led Strikes into Iran's Depths, Commanders of Midnight Hammer Confirm

Recently, U.S. military officials disclosed that the F-35 stealth fighters associated with Operation Midnight Hammer flew extensive distances into Iranian airspace, ensuring they were the last to depart.

These F-35A Lightning II jets, from Utah's 388th Fighter Wing, were responsible for accompanying B-2 Spirit stealth bombers during a June mission to target Iran's nuclear sites with substantial bunker-buster bombs.

Throughout the intricate nocturnal operation, the F-35s neutralized Iran's air defenses, facilitating the path for additional military aircraft, including seven B-2 bombers.

Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Osborne, leader of the 34th Fighter Squadron, highlighted their mission's extensive reach into Iranian territory, showcasing effective combat methods against various surface-to-air missile installations.

A sum of 14 GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators, each weighing 30,000 pounds, was deployed by the B-2s. Subsequently, the F-35s safeguarded the bomber's retreat, remaining the last aircraft within Iranian skies.

The operation's intricacies were unveiled on Monday, affirming that Iranian forces did not engage any American jets during the mission. The 388th Fighter Wing, stationed at Hill Air Force Base, regularly rehearses missions aimed at suppressing enemy air defenses.

F-35 pilots harness the jet's design features, such as stealth and advanced sensors, to detect missile threats—a capability demonstrated during this operation.

Developed by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 has faced a variety of threats over two decades—from the Middle Eastern conflicts to eliminating Russian drones above NATO regions. Despite being a fifth-generation marvel, it remains the priciest military program globally, facing criticism over its sustainment and operational challenges.

Midnight Hammer leaders, however, commended the F-35 for its robust performance during the operation, with Colonel Charles Fallon of the 388th Fighter Wing emphasizing the aircraft's stealth and combat superiority.

The operation concentrated on critical Iranian locations—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. This offensive was part of a broader conflict involving Iran and Israel, and it utilized 75 precision-guided munitions, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, beyond merely bunker-busting bombs.

Additionally, the surprise assault included F-22, F-15, F-16 jets, extensive aerial refueling capabilities, and even support from a US Navy missile submarine.