Media reports indicate that the United States has deployed fifth-generation F-22 Raptor fighter jets from the United Kingdom to Israel. U.S. officials confirmed the aircraft were headed to the Middle East, with some already arrived. This move is seen as part of bolstering U.S. military presence in the region ahead of new talks on Iran's nuclear program.
According to The New York Times, dozens of F-22s took off from RAF Lakenheath in the UK on February 24. Citing flight monitoring, video footage, and aviation observer materials, the publication notes that some of the aircraft had previously been deployed there from the U.S., and were accompanied by refueling tankers during departure.
NYT reports that the fighters did not appear on open flight tracking services, as combat aircraft often hide data. However, refueling tankers that flew with them were recorded over the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon, potentially indicating their flight to the Middle East.
Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General David Deptula stated that the deployment may signal preparation for a tougher stance toward Iran and possible coordination with Israel. He said this suggests serious consideration of military options if Tehran refuses Washington's terms.
Per the U.S. Air Force description, the F-22 is a stealth next-generation fighter capable of striking air and ground targets. NYT recalls that during previous U.S. operations, such aircraft escorted strategic B-2 bombers.
Anadolu Agency reports, citing open-source intelligence data, that the U.S. has amassed over 300 military aircraft in the Middle East. According to the agency, they are primarily stationed at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, and Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, as well as on the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carriers.
Anadolu data shows that since early January, U.S. Central Command has conducted approximately 270 logistical flights to form this grouping. The agency also reports the deployment of Patriot and THAAD missile defense systems to the region.
Per open-source information cited by the agency, the grouping includes various support and strike aircraft, including about 48 F-16 and 42 F-35 fighters. Meanwhile, movements of strategic B-2 bombers have not been recorded recently.
Open-source estimates indicate that over 250 strike fighters in Israel's arsenal effectively double the combined air power of allies in the region.
Source: kun.uz