Washington (GNP): At least 81 military aircraft of the United States (US) have been lost or damaged in operations against Iran since February, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). The total covers fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters and drones.
The CRS is a non-partisan research arm of the US Congress. It provides lawmakers with independent analysis on national security, foreign policy and other policy issues.
Drones account for the largest share of the losses. The report said at least 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones were reportedly lost during the conflict.
Manned fighter jets also feature prominently. The CRS documented the destruction of three F-15E jets in a friendly-fire incident over Kuwait in March. Another F-15E was shot down over Iran in April.
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Damage to aircraft on the ground adds to the count. Eight F-15s were damaged in September when Iran attacked a US airbase in Jordan, although the report said they were later returned to service.
The assessment also lists damage to one F-35A fighter, two A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and seven KC-135 aerial refuelling aircraft.
These numbers are not final. The CRS cautioned that they could change as the conflict continues, with some damage assessments still subject to revision. It also noted that its assessment does not necessarily establish the circumstances behind every reported loss or damage.
Taken together, the figures show the scale and intensity of US air operations in the conflict. They also point to the exposure of unmanned aircraft and other assets to Iranian attacks, and to the cost of sustaining air operations across the region.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
