US fighter aircraft are now able to operate deep within Iranian airspace with minimal resistance, as much of Iran’s advanced air defense network has been neutralized in the initial phase of the US military campaign, according to the Pentagon. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated that Iran’s high-end surface-to-air missile systems no longer pose a significant threat to US aircraft as Operation Epic Fury progresses. This development marks a substantial reduction in Iran’s air defense capability following extensive American air strikes across the country.
The Pentagon reported that the US-led campaign has targeted over 5,000 sites in Iran since its commencement, including missile launch sites, drone facilities, and other military infrastructure. Strategic Command bombers have conducted precision strikes on buried missile launchers using GPS-guided weapons. Additionally, American forces have attacked Iran’s drone manufacturing network, aiming to disrupt their autonomous capabilities.
The sustained air campaign has led to a significant decrease in missile and drone attacks launched by Iran, with ballistic missile attacks dropping by 90% and one-way drone attacks decreasing by 83% since the conflict began. The US military has also focused on neutralizing Iran’s naval capabilities in the Gulf, engaging over 50 Iranian naval ships using a combination of artillery, aircraft, bombers, and sea-launched missiles.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth emphasized the precision and intensity of the ongoing campaign, targeting Iran’s military and industrial complex to dismantle its missile program and military capabilities. The operation aims to destroy Iran’s missile stockpiles and launchers, cripple its navy, and prevent the regime from acquiring nuclear weapons. Despite the progress made in weakening Iran’s air defenses, General Caine highlighted that combat risks persist, with US forces prepared for search and rescue operations if necessary.
