Heavy losses to American fighters in the war with Iran have taken on new dimensions. According to a report recently released by the Congressional Research Service, since the start of this war, at least 81 American military aircraft have either been destroyed or sustained serious damage. The total damage to this air fleet amounts to $3.3 billion.
Advanced Fighters at Risk
This report particularly highlights the damage inflicted on some of the most advanced American fighters. Among them is a stealth fighter F-35A Lightning II that was damaged during the battle, as well as 12 F-15E Strike Eagles that have either been destroyed or severely damaged. According to available information, three F-15 fighters were shot down on March 2 due to friendly fire while flying over Kuwait, and another was lost over Iran the following month.
Read more: China Emphasizes Its Opposition to the Sale of American Weapons to Taiwan
Damage to Drones and Other Aircraft
The losses to fighters do not stop here. The report also mentions the loss of 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones. These drones, each valued between $30 to $50 million, play a key role in reconnaissance operations and missile strikes. The damage has been such that the number of multi-role Reaper drones has decreased to 135, while the U.S. Air Force requires at least 189 of these drones.
Among other losses, a $270 million E-3 Sentry reconnaissance aircraft has also been lost. This aircraft, based on the Boeing 707 passenger plane, is recognized as a vital tool in reconnaissance and air control operations. Additionally, during this period, the U.S. Air Force has lost one A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, and another of the same type was damaged in an attack in September in Jordan.
This report indicates that the U.S. is currently facing serious challenges in securing its air equipment. U.S. Central Command recently announced that the total cost of the war against Iran has risen to $43.6 billion, which is $5 billion more than in August. Furthermore, the cost of weapons during this period has reached $28.1 billion.
In light of these circumstances, American fighters are facing serious challenges on the battlefield, and these losses could have broader implications for U.S. military strategies in the region.
Read more: Israeli Regime's Efforts to Cleanse Southern Syria of Military Presence · JD Vance: The Withdrawal of American Bombers from Britain Was Due to Caution
