U.S. Targets Iranian Air Force Logistics and Intelligence Aircraft to Secure Air Superiority

U.S. forces operating under Operation Epic Fury are targeting critical elements of Iran’s military aviation infrastructure, focusing on logistics and surveillance aircraft rather than frontline fighters. Imagery and video released by U.S. Central Command on March 12, 2026, show precision strikes destroying several Il-76 strategic transport aircraft, P-3 Orion maritime patrol planes, and C-130 Hercules tactical airlifters parked at Iranian airbases. Defense analysts say these platforms form the backbone of Iran’s operational mobility and intelligence-gathering capabilities. By striking them on the ground, the campaign appears intended to limit Tehran’s ability to move military equipment, monitor maritime activity, and sustain operations across the Middle East. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link …
Still image from a video released by U.S. Central Command on March 12, 2026, showing a precision strike targeting an Iranian Navy P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft during operations aimed at degrading Iran’s military aviation capabilities. (Picture source: U.S. CENTCOM)

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