Official announcements from the U.S. Department of Defense or credible news outlets such as Reuters or BBC

U.S. Deploys F-16s, KC-135R, and KC-130R Tankers to Middle East Amid Rising Tensions

Oct 25, 2024, 03:44 PM

The U.S. Central Command has announced the deployment of reinforcements to the Middle East amid rising tensions and potential conflict involving Israel and Iran. At least ten KC-135R Stratotankers, accompanied by approximately 20 F-16 fighter jets, have been transferred from a base in Germany to U.S. bases in the Middle East. This significant movement of military assets suggests preparations for a possible Israeli strike on Iran and anticipates an Iranian response. The deployment includes aircraft from the 480th Fighter Squadron based at Spangdahlem Air Base. Additionally, a dozen KC-130R Stratotankers were seen over Europe and several aircraft crossed the Atlantic from the United States.