Executive Summary
The U.S. military reportedly lost or damaged 81 aircraft, including 45 MQ-9 Reapers, during Operation Epic Fury against Iran between February and September 2026. The Congressional Budget Office estimated replacement costs between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion. These losses raise significant considerations for Congress regarding budgetary impacts, force sufficiency, and industrial base capacity.
Why It Matters
This document details significant U.S. aircraft losses in a direct conflict with Iran, providing critical data for assessing military readiness, budgetary implications, and the evolving threat landscape in the Middle East.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. military reportedly lost or damaged 81 aircraft, including 45 MQ-9 Reapers, during Operation Epic Fury against Iran.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
Listed below are 81 fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft, including uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS, or drones), reportedly lost or damaged in U.S. operations against Iran since February 28, according to news reports, statements by DOD and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), and the DOD Inspector General (DODIG, which was designated the Lead IG for OEF).
- The estimated cost to replace lost equipment ranges from $1.9 billion to $3.3 billion, depending on DOD replacement plans.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
In September 2026, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated the cost of equipment losses as of August 1 at between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion, depending on DOD plans for replacements.
- These losses prompt congressional considerations regarding force sufficiency, industrial base capacity, and potential capability gaps, especially for high-demand platforms.
Source evidence · PDF page 3
Congress may assess whether losses in certain high-demand platforms that are aging and limited in number, such as the E-3 Sentry, create capability gaps or increase risk in other theaters.
Strategic Relevance
The reported aircraft losses highlight the operational costs and risks of direct military engagement with a near-peer adversary like Iran, impacting U.S. force posture, budget allocation, and industrial base demands for replacement and modernization.