Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) is a core component of US Strategic Command, providing the backbone of America's nuclear deterrence and strategic strike operations.

Headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, AFGSC was established to ensure the effective employment of US nuclear assets when required by national leadership.

Its mission integrates the nuclear-capable strategic bomber force with the land-based intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) arsenal, central to the US nuclear triad.

AFGSC and global strike operations

AFGSC's primary mission is to deliver combat-ready forces capable of executing strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike operations in support of US combatant commanders.

A recent example of its operational success was during Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025.

Seven B-2 Spirit stealth bombers served as the strike force, supported by over 125 aircraft, including fighters, tankers and ISR platforms.

The bombers dropped 14 GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs, each weighing 30,000 pounds, to target Iranian nuclear facilities with precision.

This mission demonstrated America's unmatched ability to deploy stealth bombers globally, carrying over 420,000 pounds of munitions and hitting critical targets with extraordinary accuracy.

AFGSC's operational readiness showcased the US Air Force's global reach and efficacy in deterring adversarial threats.

Strategic bombers and ICBM arsenal

AFGSC oversees three bomber types currently in the US Air Force inventory, each integral to nuclear and conventional deterrence.

The fleet includes 76 B-52 Stratofortress bombers, the cornerstone of the bomber force, with 52 stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base.

The B-52 can rapidly deploy worldwide, launching up to 12 fully loaded aircraft with support from aerial refueling for extended missions.

The fleet also includes 45 B-1B Lancer bombers, known for their speed, and 20 B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, vital for penetrating advanced air defenses.

A forthcoming addition to the fleet, the B-21 Raider, will enhance future deterrence with advanced capabilities.

Additionally, AFGSC manages the US land-based ICBM arsenal, currently consisting of Minuteman III missiles and, in the future, Sentinel systems.

Together with submarine-launched ballistic missiles and strategic bombers, these assets solidify the US nuclear triad, maintaining strategic deterrence and global stability.