The Pentagon is deploying 18 additional A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft to the Middle East, doubling the fleet already operating in the region. The planes have been used against Iranian boats and militias and could support U.S. ground operations near th

2026-04-02

The Pentagon is deploying 18 additional A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft to the Middle East, doubling the fleet already operating in the region. The planes have been used against Iranian boats and militias and could support U.S. ground operations near the Strait of Hormuz or Kharg Island. Officials say their presence indicates weakened Iranian air defenses. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said U.S. forces now have sufficient control to fly B-52 Stratofortress missions over Iran.