The United States' decision to accept a ceasefire with Iran after weeks of escalation has triggered debate among analysts, with many pointing to heavy military and financial losses during the conflict. While the US administration maintains that its objectives were achieved, reports suggest that sustained damage to aircraft and equipment may have influenced the decision.
The conflict began on February 28, when US President Donald Trump launched 'Operation Epic Fury' against Iran. The operation was presented as a strong military response. However, within weeks, multiple reports indicated significant losses on the US side.
Rising losses during the conflict
According to international media reports, the US lost at least seven manned fighter jets and more than 20 aircraft during the conflict. In one incident on March 2, three F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were reportedly destroyed due to 'friendly fire' from Kuwait's air defence system. Each of these aircraft is valued at around 97 million dollars.
On March 27, an E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft was destroyed in an Iranian strike in Saudi Arabia. The estimated cost of this aircraft is about 300 million dollars.
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Further losses were reported on April 3, when another F-15E and two A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft were destroyed in Iranian attacks. Earlier, on March 19, an F-35 fighter jet was reportedly hit by an Iranian missile. While Iran claimed it was destroyed, US sources said it suffered heavy damage and was taken out of service.
In another incident on April 5, US forces destroyed two C-130 Hercules aircraft at a temporary base in Iran to prevent sensitive technology from falling into Iranian hands. Each aircraft is valued at over 100 million dollars.
Drone losses and financial impact
Unmanned systems also suffered significant damage. By March 19, at least 12 MQ-9 Reaper drones had been lost, with Iran claiming to have shot down nine of them. Each drone costs approximately 30 million dollars.
Additionally, an MQ-4C Triton drone, one of the most advanced in the US fleet, went missing over the Strait of Hormuz. Its estimated cost ranges between 180 and 200 million dollars.
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Overall, estimated losses from aircraft and drones alone have crossed 3 billion dollars. Analysts say the financial impact, along with the loss of advanced military assets, added pressure on the US administration.
Despite this, the Pentagon and the White House have stated that their primary objective - targeting Iran's military infrastructure - was achieved within 38 days. Officials also said the ceasefire followed Iran's agreement to conditions related to the Strait of Hormuz, a key global trade route.
However, a section of military and economic analysts believes that the scale of losses and rising operational costs may have played a role in the US agreeing to the ceasefire. The situation highlights the broader economic and strategic challenges faced during prolonged modern warfare.
