Washington: Open-source data indicates a significant deployment of over 300 US military aircraft to the Central Command (CENTCOM) region, as tensions escalate between the United States and Iran. This deployment includes a variety of military aircraft strategically located at key bases in the Middle East, such as Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, and Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
According to Anadolu Agency, the deployment is supported by carrier air wings 8 and 9 aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carriers. Since early January, approximately 270 C-17 and C-5 logistics flights have been necessary to assemble this formidable air force, complemented by Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense systems. Currently, around 75 KC-46 and KC-135 strategic transports remain active within CENTCOM or are en route to the region.
The air fleet comprises a diverse mix of support and offensive aircraft. Almost 70% of the aircraft are combat jets, including 84 F-18E/F, 36 F-15E, 48 F-16C/CJ/CM, and 42 F-35A/C jets. The remaining 30% consists of specialized aircraft such as 18 EA-18G 'Growler' electronic warfare planes, 12 A-10C 'Thunderbolt' close air support aircraft, 5 E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) aircraft, and 6 E3 'Sentry' Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. Notably, there have been no sightings of B-2 bombers, which played a role in Operation Midnight Hammer last June.
In a related development, Israel's military buildup in the region continues to draw attention. Analysts suggest that Israel may be advocating for military action against Iran, potentially participating in any forthcoming strikes. Israel's fighter fleet, including 66 F-15I/C/D, 173 F-16I/C/D, and 48 F-35 jets, effectively doubles the airpower assembled by the US and its allies.
On Tuesday, Israel further bolstered its capabilities by receiving 12 US F-22 'Raptor' stealth fighters, recognized as the most advanced in the US arsenal. These aircraft are designed for penetrating enemy territory and disabling air defense systems, according to Israel's public broadcaster KAN. Additionally, another 6 F-22s were observed departing from Langley Air Force Base in the US, likely heading to Israel via RAF Lakenheath in the UK.
Amid these military developments, the White House emphasized that US President Donald Trump prioritizes diplomacy in addressing tensions with Iran, though military action remains an option if necessary. "President Trump's first option is always diplomacy, but as he has shown, he is willing to use the lethal force of the United States military if necessary," spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated.
Leavitt referenced the "overwhelmingly successful" Operation Midnight Hammer from June, which targeted Iran's nuclear facilities, while cautioning that the nuclear threat has not been fully eradicated. As a third round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US, mediated by Oman, is set to commence on Thursday in Geneva, Iran is expected to present a draft proposal.