B1-B Lancer and cluster bombs (South Dakota News Watch)
ELLSWORTH, S.D. (KFGO-South Dakota News Watch) – B-1B Lancers from Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota were used in the attacks on Iran on March 1 and March 2.
Gov. Larry Rhoden confirms the strategic bombers flew non-stop from South Dakota to Iran.
“Thank you to the dedicated patriots serving our nation at South Dakota’s own Ellsworth Air Force base! They put themselves in harm’s way and were a key part of making Operation Epic Fury successful,” Rhoden wrote on X.
The mission reportedly took 34 hours, and the Lancers targeted ballistic missile facilities and other command infrastructure.
Rep. Dusty Johnson said, “South Dakota is proud to be the home of these B-1 bombers at Ellsworth. I’m continuing to pray for the safety of our servicemen and women.”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune also posted about the mission on social media writing, “The United States is fortunate to rely on the talented and dedicated Americans who defend our nation, including the airmen at Ellsworth AFB who continue to demonstrate an unmatched ability to generate and deliver combat power with global reach. Continuing to pray for the safety of all of our service members as they carry out their missions.”
Ellsworth was also part of a mission in Iran in 2025. The 89th Attack Squadron carried out 175 hours of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance as part of Operation Midnight Hammer in June. Rhoden honored them at a ceremony in October.
The B1-B Lancer can travel faster than the speed of sound and has the capability of carrying the largest payload of any aircraft inventory, and its blended wings and body allows for long-range flights. It made its combat debut in 1998.
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