Israel-Iran conflict triggers uncertainty for NT-based US assets

It remains unknown if US assets based in the Northern Territory will have a role to play in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, with a US official unable to give a clear answer.

Pete Hegseth says “protecting US Forces” remains his top priority. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

The United States has refused to rule out the option of using Royal Australian Air Force bases to launch bombing raids against Iran.

As Tehran and Jerusalem continue to exchange fire – and as the United States enters the conflict with three airstrikes on nuclear sites on Sunday – it remains unknown if US assets posted to RAAF Base Tindal, Northern Territory, will have any role in the escalating violence.

On the outskirts of Katherine, RAAF Base Tindal can base up to six B-52 bombers, which are frequently housed at the establishment.

The B-52 has an un-refueled combat range of about 14,000 kms, making Tehran a viable target for the destructive airframe.

However, northern Australia’s role in Middle Eastern bombing raids are not limited to the tarmac.

In October 2024, US Air Force B-2 stealth bombers were given access and overflight in the Northern Territory as part of a strategic strike mission in Houthi-controlled Yemen.

RAAF Base Tindal is home to US personnel and assets.

The B-2 bomber, despite having less range than the B-52, could also reach Iranian airspace from Katherine and bring to bear up to 18,000 kgs of ordnance, including precision munitions.

At the time, the Department of Defence denied suggestions the bombers landed on or operated from RAAF Base Tindal, which was the establishment understood to have aided the bombers.

When the NT News asked if the Pentagon would conduct strikes from Australian’s north, a US Department of Defense spokesperson did not answer.

Instead, they referred this masthead to a media statement made by Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth on June 17.

“Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility (CENTCOM),” he said.

“Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.”

CENTCOM covers more than 20 nations, primarily across the Middle East and South Asia.

RAAF Base Tindal from overhead.

The spokesperson also referred this masthead to post made on X (formerly Twitter) by Mr Hegseth’s assistant, Sean Parnell.

“American Forces are maintaining their defensive posture and that has not changed,” he said.

“We will protect American troops and our interest.”

Canberra officials have also remained tight-lipped, with Defence spokesperson refusing to answer whether US air assets would be permitted to conduct air operations from ADF bases.

“Australia is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East,” they told this masthead.

“The Government urges all parties to de-escalate, exercise restraint, and return to dialogue and diplomacy.”