Iran claims destruction of 11 U.S. aircraft in recent escalation

Iran's Revolutionary Guard has asserted that its armed forces successfully destroyed 11 U.S. combat aircraft and helicopters, along with numerous military installations, during a period of heightened tensions with the United States. The alleged destruction occurred between July 8 and July 22.

According to General Hosein Mohebi, a spokesperson for the Revolutionary Guard, the Iranian forces targeted aircraft both on the ground and deployed at U.S. military bases in the region over the 15 days of conflict. He detailed the destroyed assets, which included 17 reconnaissance and combat drones, eight of which were reportedly new. Mohebi also claimed the destruction of an F-15 fighter jet within a reinforced shelter, a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, a C-17 transport plane, and eight mid-air refueling tankers.

Beyond aircraft, Mohebi stated that Iranian operations inflicted significant damage on U.S. military infrastructure. The reported infrastructure losses included seven command and control centers, three satellite communication systems, six Patriot radar systems, eight early warning and detection systems, seven anti-missile defense radars, and various long-range and air/maritime surveillance radars.

The United States has not officially confirmed the specific aircraft and equipment losses detailed by the Revolutionary Guard. While Iran claims U.S. casualties in the recent escalation exceed 200, Washington has acknowledged the deaths of four soldiers in recent weeks and a total of 18 military personnel since the conflict began on February 28.

Despite a recent pause in U.S. airstrikes, diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran are reportedly ongoing. However, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about Iran's readiness for a definitive peace agreement, even as communications continue.