Operation Epic Fury: US-Led Strikes Against Iran
The United States, at the direction of the President, initiated Operation Epic Fury on February 28, 2026, with the stated goal of dismantling the Iranian regime’s security apparatus. This large-scale air and missile campaign is being conducted in conjunction with partner forces, most notably Israel, which launched a simultaneous operation dubbed Operation Roaring Lion [aerospaceglobalnews.com].
Objectives and Initial Targets
CENTCOM forces are prioritizing targets that pose an imminent threat, focusing on Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) command and control facilities, Iranian air defense capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and military airfields [centcom.mil]. The initial phase of the operation involved degrading integrated air defenses and command networks, utilizing precision munitions launched from air, land, and sea [aerospaceglobalnews.com].
First 24 Hours of Operation
The first 24 hours of Operation Epic Fury saw the integration of stealth aircraft, uncrewed systems, and spectrum warfare to suppress defenses and shape the battlespace [armyrecognition.com]. CENTCOM too employed low-cost one-way attack drones for the first time in combat, through Task Force Scorpion Strike [aerospaceglobalnews.com]. The operation has been described as the largest regional concentration of American military firepower in a generation [aerospaceglobalnews.com].
Recent Developments and Casualties
As of March 12, 2026, rescue work is ongoing following an incident that occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury [centcom.mil]. Another aircraft was involved, but landed safely. The incident was not caused by enemy fire or friendly fire. Since the start of the US and Israeli campaign on February 28, 2026, seven US soldiers have been killed, and up to 150 have been wounded [centcom.mil].
Supporting Military Activity
On March 12, 2026, a U.S. Strike destroyed a Russian-made IL-76 transport aircraft at Kerman Airbase in Iran. U.S. KC-135 tankers continue to support Navy F/A-18F strikes as part of Operation Epic Fury [centcom.mil]. Israel has also ordered 5,000 Boeing GBU-39 precision bombs to expand its air force strike capabilities [centcom.mil].
Regional Response
Greece has deployed a Patriot air defense system to Bulgaria to protect against ballistic missiles [centcom.mil].
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.