Show-Me State Times

On October 16, B-2 Spirit long-range bombers from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri carried out precision strikes against five underground weapons storage sites in Houthi-controlled regions of Yemen. This operation highlighted the United States' ability to conduct global strike missions.

Major General Jason R. Armagost, commander of the 8th Air Force and Joint-Global Strike Operations Center (J-GSOC), emphasized the readiness of U.S. forces: “As the warfighting component to U.S. Strategic Command, our Airmen and aircraft are ready to respond anytime, anywhere.”

The mission involved a collaborative effort from various units including the 509th Bomb Wing, 131st BW, and J-GSOC. At Whiteman AFB, both Air National Guard and active-duty personnel worked together across different operations to ensure the success of this mission.

Col. Keith J. Butler, commander of the 509th BW, acknowledged the dedication required for such operations: "This mission was the result of hard work, long hours, and dedication by many across the installation.” He praised Team Whiteman's execution with "precision, professionalism and outstanding performance."

In J-GSOC, planners developed comprehensive strategies for this complex mission which required coordination across six combatant commands. Armagost expressed pride in his team's efforts: “I couldn’t be more proud of the dedication, professionalism and hard work... Whether we are called upon to conduct indefinite strategic deterrence operations or execute decisive global strikes, the J-GSOC will remain agile and ready.”

The partnership between active-duty forces and Guard units is crucial for maintaining credible deterrence capabilities. The 157th Air Operations Group at Jefferson Barracks Air National Guard Station supported multi-domain effects development while the 257th Combat Operations Flight ensured effective implementation.

Col. Jared Kennish of the 131st BW highlighted teamwork as key to success: “This was a team effort in all aspects... our Missouri Guard Airmen contributed every step of the way.” The mission demonstrated advanced capabilities like long range and low observability associated with B-2 bombers.

Col. Butler further noted Team Whiteman's preparedness: "We continue to stay ready... we showed the world a peek of what Team Whiteman can do." He described them as an elite team composed of diverse members working towards delivering global strike capabilities.