Operation Epic Fury reveals the advanced US weapons deployed against Iran, including stealth bombers, fighter jets, drones and precision strike systems.
Two days ago, US unleashed Operation Epic Fury, one of the largest displays of US airpower in the Middle East in decades. In the first 24 hours alone, more than 1,000 targets were struck, according to US Central Command, marking a dramatic escalation in military action against Iran.
The campaign combines stealth, speed and precision. Here is a simple guide to the key US weapons shaping the battlefield.
B 2 Spirit stealth bomber
The B 2 is one of America’s most advanced bombers. Flying directly from the United States on long range missions, it targeted hardened ballistic missile sites using 2,000 pound precision guided bombs. Its stealth design allows it to penetrate heavily defended airspace without being easily detected.
F 35 Lightning II
Roughly 30 F 35 stealth fighters were deployed to the region. The F 35 is a multirole jet, meaning it can conduct air combat and ground strikes in the same mission. Its advanced sensors give pilots a clear picture of the battlefield, even in complex combat conditions.
F 22 Raptor
The F 22 is built for air dominance. Its main job is to control the skies and protect other aircraft. During Operation Epic Fury, it likely escorted bombers and strike fighters, ensuring they were shielded from Iranian aircraft or airborne threats.
F 16 Fighting Falcon
The F 16 remains a versatile and widely used fighter. Some versions, known as Wild Weasels, are trained to destroy enemy radar and missile systems. These jets help clear the way by suppressing air defences.
F 15E Strike Eagle
The F 15E is a powerful strike aircraft capable of carrying heavy bomb loads. It has previously been used in defensive roles, including intercepting drones and missiles. Its speed and payload make it a key asset in sustained operations. In a friendly fire today, Kuwait shot down three F 15Es.
EA 18 Growler
This aircraft specialises in electronic warfare. The EA 18 jams enemy radar and communication systems, reducing the effectiveness of air defences. By disrupting sensors, it helps protect other aircraft during strike missions.
MQ 9 Reaper drone
The MQ 9 is an unmanned aircraft used for surveillance and targeted strikes. It gathers intelligence, tracks movement on the ground and can fire missiles when required. Drones also help assess damage after strikes.
HIMARS rocket system
The mobile HIMARS launcher fires Precision Strike Missiles capable of hitting targets with high accuracy at long range. It can be rapidly deployed and repositioned, making it difficult to target.
Tomahawk cruise missiles
Launched from guided missile destroyers, Tomahawk missiles travel long distances and strike fixed targets with precision. They are often used in the early stages of a campaign to disable key facilities.
P 8 Poseidon
The P 8 is a maritime patrol aircraft. It monitors sea lanes, tracks ships and gathers intelligence, especially near key waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.
RC 135 Rivet Joint
This spy aircraft collects signals intelligence. It listens to radar and communication signals, helping commanders understand enemy movements and plans.
KC 46 Pegasus
The KC 46 is an aerial refuelling tanker. It allows fighter jets and bombers to stay in the air longer by refuelling them mid flight.
In addition to the above, the US is using two aircraft carriers in Operation Epic Fury:
USS Gerald R. Ford:
The newest US Navy carrier, operating F 35 jets, electronic warfare aircraft and support planes.
USS Abraham Lincoln:
A Nimitz class carrier launching fighter jets and strike missions in the region.
Both serve as floating airbases, allowing continuous air operations near Iran.
US officials also confirmed the use of special capabilities that were not detailed publicly. Operation Epic Fury demonstrates how modern warfare blends stealth aircraft, long range missiles, drones and electronic warfare into a coordinated campaign designed to strike quickly and with precision.
Image credit: Respective agencies.
