U.S. Central Command says American forces have conducted more than 6,000 combat sorties over Iran since Operation Epic Fury began at 01:15 on 28 February 2026 under presidential authorization. The campaign targets sites assessed to pose an immediate threat and has already struck roughly 6,000 locations across the country. According to CENTCOM’s 12 March operational update, the strikes have also damaged or destroyed more than 90 Iranian naval vessels, including over 60 ships and more than 30 minelayers. The operation represents one of the largest sustained U.S. air campaigns in the region in decades and appears focused on weakening Iran’s maritime capabilities and military infrastructure. Read more.
 |
| A U.S. Air Force F-16 departs on a mission in the Middle East in support of Operation Epic Fury on March 2, 2026. (Picture source: US DoD) |