Iranian strikes on a US military base in Jordan this week damaged several American aircraft, including an A-10 Thunderbolt II and multiple F-15 fighter jets, according to a US official cited by Reuters.
The attack targeted Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, which has played an important role in US military operations in the region. The reported damage adds to a growing list of American military equipment losses and injuries since the conflict involving the United States and Iran began in February.
According to the US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, an A-10 aircraft suffered major damage, with one wing reportedly torn off. Around eight F-15s sustained lighter damage but were subsequently returned to service.
US aircraft losses mount during Iran conflict
The latest damage comes after a series of incidents involving US military aircraft and drones during the conflict.
More than two dozen American drones have reportedly been destroyed, while additional aircraft have been damaged or lost in combat and accidents.
A Congressional Research Service report published in May had estimated that 42 US military aircraft had already been lost or damaged during the conflict. The latest incident at the Jordanian base could increase that figure, although a comprehensive updated tally was not immediately available.
The US military has also suffered casualties. Since the conflict began in February, 18 US service members have reportedly been killed and more than 800 injured.
A-10 and F-15 aircraft among those affected
The A-10 Thunderbolt II, popularly known as the Warthog, is designed primarily for close-air-support missions and is recognized for its ability to operate in heavily contested environments.
The F-15, meanwhile, is a long-serving US fighter aircraft that has been used extensively for air superiority and strike missions.
The reported damage to both aircraft types illustrates the risks facing US forces as military operations continue across the region.
While the F-15s were reportedly able to return to service after sustaining relatively limited damage, the condition of the A-10 was significantly more serious.
Jordan’s strategic role in the region
Jordan has become an important location for US military operations because of its proximity to several conflict zones across the Middle East.
Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, located near Azraq, has hosted US forces and aircraft involved in regional operations. Its location makes it strategically significant for surveillance, air operations and support missions.
The reported Iranian strike demonstrates the broader geographic reach of the current conflict, with military installations outside Iran and the immediate battlefield increasingly exposed to attacks.
Wider regional tensions remain high
The strike comes as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz has also become a major flashpoint, with commercial shipping traffic falling sharply amid concerns over security and freedom of navigation. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts involving Iran and Gulf states are continuing as governments seek ways to reduce the risk of a wider escalation.
South Korea’s foreign minister also discussed the situation in the Middle East and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a telephone conversation with Iran’s foreign minister on Friday.
At the same time, the economic effects of the conflict are becoming increasingly visible. Oil prices have surged as markets respond to concerns over disruptions to energy supplies, while Asian stocks came under pressure amid renewed inflation and interest-rate concerns.
What the latest damage means
The reported attack highlights the increasing pressure on US forces operating in the region.
Damage to aircraft at a key Jordanian base could have implications for operational readiness, although the reported return of several F-15s to service suggests that not all losses will result in long-term reductions in US air power.
The broader concern remains the possibility of continued attacks against American bases and military assets as the conflict develops.
For Washington and its regional partners, protecting bases, maintaining aircraft availability and limiting further casualties will remain central challenges as military and diplomatic developments unfold.
