Marta Gichko09:24, 20.05.26

Analysts reported large-scale losses of aircraft during the operation against Iran, including due to combat, friendly fire, and technical incidents.

The United States lost or damaged at least 42 aircraft during Operation Epic Fury against Iran , according to an updated report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) prepared for US lawmakers.

Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2026, was conducted with the participation of the United States and Israel and included air, naval, and missile combat operations in the Middle East.

Confirmed losses include F-15E Strike Eagle fighters, F-35A Lightning IIs, and A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft. In total, four F-15Es, one F-35A, and one A-10 are reported lost.

Also damaged or destroyed were seven KC-135 Stratotanker tanker aircraft, an E-3 Sentry long-range radar detection aircraft, two MC-130J Commando II transport aircraft, and an HH-60W Jolly Green II rescue helicopter.

The unmanned component suffered the greatest losses. The US lost:

• 24 MQ-9 Reaper strike and reconnaissance drones;
• one strategic reconnaissance MQ-4C Triton.

The report notes that some of the losses were combat-related, but some were caused by friendly fire or technical problems. In particular, three F-15Es were destroyed by false fire over Kuwait, and one KC-135 crashed in Iraq.

CRS analysts also emphasize that the Pentagon has not yet released full official statistics on losses, while the total cost of the operation has already increased to $29 billion, a significant part of which will go to the restoration or replacement of equipment.

(c)UNIAN 2026