US military aircraft losses mount as Iran war approaches fourth week

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by BloombergMarch 20, 2026 at 07:26 AM

AI Summary

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In the first three weeks of the war with Iran, the US military has suffered significant aircraft losses. At least 16 aircraft have been lost, including 10 Reaper strike drones and six other planes damaged or destroyed. The most serious incidents involved accidents, with three F-15s downed by friendly fire in Kuwait and a KC-135 tanker destroyed during a refueling operation, resulting in six fatalities. Iranian action is responsible for the destruction of nine Reapers, with one hit by a ballistic missile at an airfield in Jordan. Five KC-135s were also reportedly damaged by an Iranian missile strike while parked at a Saudi Arabian airfield. The Reapers were designed to be used in high-risk areas due to their lower cost and lack of pilots.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Jordan 40% Saudi Arabia 50% Kuwait ×260% F-15 60% KC-135 ×260% Reaper ×370% US military 80% Iran ×290% United States ×390%

Keywords

military aircraft losses 100% iran war 90% reaper strike drones 80% friendly fire 70% kc-135 tanker 70% accidents 60% f-15 60% iranian missile strike 50% attritable 40%