The
strategic bomber took off late on September 19, 2026, from the UK base that
hosts U.S. rotations for Middle East operations like strikes on Iranian targets
under Operation Epic Fury.
Videos showed its powerful climb, with some observers noting a possible heavy munitions load from the afterburner use, though officials have not confirmed any mission and one report said it returned after normal training.
The flight drew online talk amid rising Middle East tensions, including Iran's high alert and U.S. embassy warnings, but its purpose remains unclear.