B‑2 bombers extend Pacific warfare range with Australia’s help; US fears Chinese invasion of Taiwan?

The United States and Australia are expanding their long-range strike partnership as Australian KC-30A tanker aircraft successfully refuelled a U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber during the Diamond Storm 26 military exercise. The operation demonstrated how Australia is helping extend the operational reach of America's most advanced stealth bomber across the Indo-Pacific without the need to land. Analysts say the growing role of Australian aerial refuelling strengthens U.S. power projection amid rising tensions with China in the Pacific. The report also highlights upgrades at RAAF Base Tindal to host U.S. B-52H bombers, while future deployments of the next-generation B-21 Raider are also being discussed.