Congressional Review of Aircraft Losses and Replacement Costs in Operation Epic Fury

Washington, DC, October 6 – The October 5, 2026, Congressional Research Service report on U.S. aircraft combat losses in Operation Epic Fury presents considerations for Congress. On February 28, 2026, the United States, coordinating with Israel, began Operation Epic Fury against Iran, with air, maritime, and missile combat across the Middle East. Combat activity declined during an April ceasefire, yet some strikes resumed, and conditions remain fluid.

Epic Fury’s Sky-High 7 Billion Dollar Aircraft Loss Nightmare Exposed

The rising cost of Operation Epic Fury has drawn significant attention as US aircraft losses in the recent Iran conflict push replacement expenses toward an estimated $7 billion. Launched in late February 2026, this intensive military campaign involved over 13,000 sorties targeting Iranian missile systems, naval assets, and defense infrastructure…

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The Department of Defense, using a secondary Department of War designation under Executive Order 14347 of September 5, 2025, published a Lead Inspector General report on September 14, 2026. The assessment covered equipment losses from operations against Iran between April 1 and June 30. Analysts and officials have offered varying estimates of costs to replace lost aircraft.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated equipment losses as of August 1 at between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion, depending on replacement plans. Reports, Defense Department and Central Command statements, and the Lead Inspector General list 81 aircraft, including drones, lost or damaged since February 28.

US Launches Massive Iran Air Strikes with Stealth Bombers and Carrier Fighters

The United States has deployed a broad mix of military aircraft in its ongoing strikes against Iran as part of Operation Epic Fury, demonstrating the depth and versatility of American airpower in major combat operations. Launched in late February 2026, the campaign has involved coordinated airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure…

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Aircraft combat loss figures remain subject to revision due to classification, ongoing combat, and attribution. Some damaged aircraft may have returned to service. The report frames replacement costs and oversight of Operation Epic Fury for Congress.