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US Loses 42 Aircraft In Iran Mission
Washington: A new report by the Congressional Research Service has revealed that at least 42 American military aircraft were either destroyed or damaged during Operation Epic Fury, a military campaign launched against the Iran on February 28.
The report states that the total number could still change as officials continue to verify battlefield information, assess classified material and investigate combat-related damage.
According to the findings, the losses included several high-value aircraft used by the US military. The damaged or destroyed fleet reportedly includes four F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets, one F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter and one A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft.
The report also listed seven KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refuelling aircraft, one E-3 Sentry surveillance aircraft, two MC-130J Commando II aircraft and one HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter among the affected assets.
Drone losses were especially significant, with 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones and one MQ-4C Triton surveillance drone reportedly damaged or destroyed during the operation.
The Congressional Research Service said its assessment was based on media reports as well as statements issued by the United States Department of Defense and United States Central Command.
During a congressional hearing on May 12, Acting Pentagon Comptroller Jules W Hurst III said the estimated cost of military operations linked to Iran has risen to USD 29 billion.
Hurst told lawmakers that much of the increase stems from updated repair and replacement costs for damaged military equipment.
