The US military has suffered significant losses in the conflict with Iran, with a total of 81 aircraft and drones lost or damaged. The losses include fighter jets, helicopters, and drones, and are estimated to have cost between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion.
What happened
The losses occurred during Operation Epic Fury, which was launched on February 28. The operation involved 38 consecutive days of strikes on Iran, and was carried out in conjunction with regional partners. The conflict has also seen the loss of several high-profile aircraft, including three F-15E Strike Eagle fighters that were shot down in a friendly-fire incident over Kuwait in March.
Other losses include a F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft that was damaged by Iranian ground fire, and several helicopters, including an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter that was shot down over the Strait of Hormuz. At least 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones were also lost in operations involving Iran, according to a report by the Congressional Research Service.
The report noted that some of the damaged aircraft may have already returned to service, and suggested that Congress may need to assess the potential effects of aircraft damage and losses on US military operations. The conflict with Iran has already cost the Department of War $38.1 billion, and is estimated to cost an additional $2 to $3 billion per month.
