It has been reported that numerous military transport and tanker aircraft belonging to the United States Air Force have carried out intensive flights to the Middle East. As part of the deployment, air defence systems, strike elements, fighter jets and various military equipment are said to have been transferred to U.S. bases in the region.
Which Aircraft Took Part?
The following aircraft were reportedly used in the operation:
- C-17 Globemaster III
- C-5 Galaxy
- C-130 Hercules
- KC-135 Stratotanker
- KC-46 Pegasus
These aircraft are said to have played a critical role in transporting heavy military equipment and personnel.
As part of the military activity in the region:
- F-35 Lightning II, F-22 Raptor, F-15 Eagle and F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets were deployed in Jordan,
- The E-3 Sentry airborne early warning and control aircraft was reported to be stationed in Saudi Arabia,
A large number of tanker aircraft were reportedly positioned and kept on standby at bases in Lajes, Portugal; on the Greek island of Crete; in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria; as well as in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Due to the heavy military traffic, it was announced that Sofia International Airport would be temporarily closed to civilian flights on the nights of 23 and 24 February.
This large-scale air deployment carried out by the United States amid escalating tensions with Iran is considered a critical development in terms of the military balance in the region. Experts state that the deployment carries a message of deterrence and also represents operational preparedness against potential scenarios.
How the military activity in the region will evolve in the coming days is being closely monitored by the international community.
