US deploys B-52 bombers over Iran to signal Tehran's air defenses have collapsed

The US has deployed B-52 Stratofortress bombers over Iran as part of Operation Epic Fury.

The deployment indicates the US assesses Iran's air defenses are degraded enough for large non-stealth bombers to operate.

B-52H bombers can carry about 70,000 pounds of ordnance and can deliver gravity bombs, JDAMs, and cruise missiles.

The use of B-52s signals a shift toward sustained deep-strike operations targeting missile sites, airfields, and command centers.