US bombers use Australian airspace for Yemen strikes
US bomber aircraft flew through Australian airspace for strikes in Yemen‚ showcasing military cooperation. Australia provided support for the operation‚ highlighting its role in US Indo-Pacific strategy
On 10/20/24 Australian officials stated that US bomber aircraft used their airspace when conducting strikes on Yemen. This move showed off the military teamwork between the two countries
The US carried out attacks on 10/17/24 targeting five underground weapon storage spots in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. For the first time‚ they used long-range B-2 stealth bombers against the Iran-linked group
Australia helped out with the US airstrikes. An Australian defence official said‚ “Australia gave support for US strikes done on 10/17/24 aiming at Houthi facilities in Yemen‚ by allowing access and overflight for US aircraft in northern Australia“
The official added “This help fits with our long-standing alliance promise and close teamwork‚ showing how well our militaries work together“
While the B-2 bomber aircraft involved in the Yemen strikes didnt operate from Australia‚ air-to-air refueling was done (as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
About 3 months ago‚ Reuters said that Royal Australian Air Force bases in Tindal and Darwin in northern Australia were being made better to handle US bomber and refueling aircraft. This work is funded by US defence money
Australia has become a key spot in the Indo-Pacific for the US again‚ as tensions with China go up. The US has big jet fuel stores at Tindal and Darwin
