However, Tehran has demonstrated that even billion-dollar platforms can be vulnerable to unconventional and cost-effective tactics.Since the start of the conflict, the US suffered damage to 16 aircraft, including 12 MQ-9 Reaper drones, which have been extensively used in West Asia operations.Each MQ-9 Reaper drone costs up to US$56.5 million, indicating losses exceeding US$500 million in drones alone. These drones have been central to US surveillance and strike operations in the region.In addition, three F-15 Strike Eagle fighter jets were lost in Kuwait on March 2, reportedly due to a friendly fire incident that remains under investigation.The US Air Force also lost a KC-135 refuelling tanker over Iraq on March 12, killing all six crew members on board. Another KC-135 aircraft was damaged in the same incident.In a development that could have far-reaching consequences, Iran reportedly struck a US F-35 stealth fighter jet over its airspace on March 19. Two others are believed to have been targeted in the UAE, including one at Al-Ruwais Industrial City, while another may have been struck at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.Each AN/TPY-2 radar is estimated to cost between US$300 million and US$500 million.Globally, there are only 10 THAAD systems, of which the US operates seven, while the UAE and Saudi Arabia operate the remaining three. Its mission had already been extended multiple times, contributing to fatigue among crew members.Originally deployed in June last year, the carrier was later reassigned to multiple theatres, including the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Source: The Times March 21, 2026 20:11 UTC