US losses in Iran operation revised to 81 aircraft

The Congressional Research Service updated its assessment of the 'Epic Fury' operation against Iran, raising total destroyed or damaged US manned and unmanned aircraft from 42 to 81 since Feb 28. Losses include F-15Es, F-35As, A-10s, KC-135 tankers, E-3 Sentry AWACS, MC-130Js, and helicopters.

MQ-9 Reaper fleet decimated

Reaper losses surged from 24 to over 45, threatening the remaining ~135-unit inventory and accelerating efforts to find cheaper replacements. Three of four early F-15E losses were due to friendly fire, while two MC-130Js were destroyed by US forces after evacuation failed.

Congressional budget officials estimate replacement costs at $1.9-3.3 billion. Note that some damaged machines may return to service.

@Slavyangrad