The United States has launched a comprehensive military operation against Iran, designated as “Operation Epic Fury,” with the primary objective of neutralizing Iranian offensive missile capabilities. In a statement regarding the strikes, the Secretary of War characterized the American military action as precise, overwhelming, and unapologetic, noting that the operation is laser-focused on destroying the weapons intended for attack.
The operation represents the largest gathering of U.S. military firepower in the region in approximately a generation. According to a detailed summary of the first 24 hours of the campaign, the U.S. Air Force is utilizing an extensive array of advanced assets. These include B-2 stealth bombers, F-35 and F-22 fifth-generation fighters, along with F-18 and F-16 aircraft and A-10 ground attack jets. Supporting these are EA-18G electronic warfare aircraft, RC-135 and B-1 reconnaissance planes, and MQ-9 Reaper drones. Air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD batteries, have been deployed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles.
On the maritime front, the operation features nuclear aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, replenishment ships, and anti-aircraft systems. The military has also deployed transport aircraft such as the C-17 and C-130. The targets of the operation are reported to be diverse, encompassing command and control centers, IRGC headquarters, integrated air defense systems, and ballistic missile sites. Additionally, the strikes are targeting the Iranian Navy’s ships and submarines, anti-ship missile locations, and military communication networks. The military summary notes that certain classified capabilities are being utilized in the operation.
