From strategic bombers to fighter aircrafts: Know all about the 20+ weapons used by US in war against Iran

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• US deployed bombers, fighters, drones, and missile defense in Epic Fury
• Naval, artillery, and aircraft deployed in operation
• Electronic warfare and counter-drone systems also utilized

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The US Central Command has outlined the range of military platforms and weapons systems deployed during the opening phase of Operation Epic Fury, the US-led campaign launched against Iran on February 28.

In a summary of the first days of the operation, CENTCOM detailed several air, naval and missile defence systems used in the conflict and described the roles they play in modern warfare.

Strategic bombers

Among the aircraft deployed are long-range bombers designed for large-scale strike missions.

The Rockwell B-1 Lancer is a supersonic strategic bomber capable of carrying large conventional payloads over long distances.

The stealth Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit is designed to evade advanced air defence systems and strike high-value targets deep inside enemy territory.

Another aircraft used is the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range heavy bomber known for its role in strategic bombing, missile launches and close air support missions.

Fighter aircrafts

CENTCOM said several fighter jets have also been involved in the campaign.

The McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is an air superiority fighter built to dominate enemy aircraft in aerial combat.

The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is a multirole fighter used for both air combat and ground attack operations.

The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet is a carrier-capable aircraft designed for air-to-air combat and ground strike missions.

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is an advanced stealth fighter known for its supercruise capability and integrated avionics systems.

drones and unmanned systems

Unmanned aerial platforms have also played a role in the operation.

CENTCOM said LUCAS drones were used for reconnaissance, surveillance and tactical missions.

The MQ-9 Reaper unmanned combat aerial vehicle has also been deployed. It is widely used for intelligence gathering and precision strike operations.

Missile defence systems

The United States has also deployed several air and missile defense systems.

The Patriot missile system is a ground-based defense platform designed to intercept aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.

Another system listed is the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, commonly known as THAAD, which intercepts short and medium range ballistic missiles during their final stage of flight.

Artillery and rocket systems

CENTCOM also said the operation involved the M142 HIMARS, a mobile rocket artillery platform capable of launching precision-guided rockets and missiles.

Naval assets

At sea, the operation has included nuclear-powered aircraft carriers that support large-scale naval air operations and deploy combat aircraft.

Guided missile destroyers have also been used. These warships are equipped with advanced missile systems designed for air defence, surface warfare and missile interception.

Support and logistics platforms

CENTCOM’s list also included several support systems that sustain military operations.

Refuelling tanker aircraft extend the range of combat planes by supplying fuel mid-air. Refuelling ships provide similar logistical support to naval vessels operating at sea.

Strategic transport aircraft such as the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III and the Lockheed C-130 Hercules are used to rapidly move troops, equipment and supplies.

Electronic warfare capabilities have also been deployed through the EC-130H Compass Call aircraft, which is designed to disrupt enemy communications and command systems.

Counter threat systems

CENTCOM also listed counter-drone technologies designed to detect and neutralise hostile unmanned aerial vehicles.

Another system in use is the Counter Rocket, Artillery and Mortar system, which detects and intercepts incoming rockets, artillery shells and mortar fire.