WEB DESK: U.S. Democratic Congressman Edward has acknowledged that the United States suffered significant aircraft losses during the Iran war, claiming that 39 American aircraft were destroyed during the conflict.
Speaking during a special Senate committee hearing, Case questioned Pentagon Chief Financial Officer Jay Hurst over the extent of U.S. losses in the war with Iran. However, Hurst reportedly avoided giving direct answers to several questions regarding the damage sustained by the U.S. military.
Citing a report by the American defence website The War Zone, Congressman Case said the U.S. Air Force conducted around 13,000 sorties during the 39-day conflict against Iran.
According to the report, 39 U.S. aircraft were destroyed, while at least 10 others suffered varying degrees of damage. The website also claimed the actual number of losses could be higher.
Among the destroyed assets were 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones operated by the U.S. Air Force.
The report further stated that five combat aircraft were lost in the air, including four F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets and one A-10 Warthog aircraft.
It also claimed that an F-35A Lightning II was shot down in Iranian airspace, marking what was described as the first-ever destruction of a fifth-generation fighter jet in combat, although the pilot reportedly ejected safely.
Additionally, three F-15E aircraft were allegedly destroyed in Kuwaiti airspace. The report also mentioned the loss of an E-3G Sentry surveillance aircraft, describing it as a major setback for the United States.
According to the report, some military assets were deliberately destroyed by U.S. forces to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands.
