Mighty Eighth commemorates one year since Operation Midnight Hammer

On the first anniversary of Operation Midnight Hammer, the Eighth Air Force marked the mission as a defining demonstration of U.S. long-range strike power, highlighting the largest B-2 Spirit operation ever and the first combat use of the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, according to a service account.

Conducted June 24, 2025, the mission launched seven B-2s from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, to hit heavily fortified targets “halfway around the world” and return more than 30 hours later. The Air Force said the bombers maintained operational surprise, reached their targets without intercept by Iranian aircraft or an effective air defense response, and underscored the ability to project combat power globally from the United States.

“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.” said Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, Eighth Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center Commander.

While the stealth bomber was the public face of the strike, the Air Force emphasized the breadth of the joint enterprise behind it. The operation drew on U.S. Strategic Command, U.S. Central Command, Air Mobility Command, Air Forces Central, Space Force partners, Guard and Reserve units, and other supporting agencies, the service said.

“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.”

The Air Force did not disclose target locations or battle damage assessments in its anniversary summary. It framed the mission as validation that penetrating strike platforms remain essential to modern warfare and that the bomber force provides unique flexibility and global reach amid evolving security demands.

The commemoration comes as the “Mighty Eighth” nears its 85th anniversary. Activated in 1942, the Eighth Air Force links its lineage from World War II strategic bombing campaigns to present-day global strike operations, a history the command says is rooted in adaptation and innovation.

“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.”