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US Military Aircraft Losses in Iran War Reach 81, Costing Up to $3.3 Billion

US Military Aircraft Losses in Iran War Reach 81, Costing Up to $3.3 Billion

First seen 7 Oct 2026, 21:33 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster •October 8, 2026 at 20:34 UTC
  • •81 U.S. military aircraft lost or damaged in the Iran war, costing up to $3.3 billion.
  • •The losses include significant assets like MQ-9 Reaper drones and F-35A fighter jets.
  • •Congress is questioning the adequacy of Pentagon reporting on aircraft losses.

A recent Congressional Research Service report indicates that 81 U.S. military aircraft have been lost or damaged since the start of Operation Epic Fury against Iran on February 28, 2026. The losses include 45 MQ-9 Reaper drones, 12 F-15E Strike Eagles, and an F-35A fighter jet, with total damages estimated between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion. The report highlights that some damaged aircraft may have returned to service, and the total cost of the war has reached at least $45 billion. The report raises questions for Congress regarding the adequacy of information from the Pentagon on these losses and potential funding for repairs or replacements. The data is based on various sources, including Pentagon statements and inspector general reports, and may be subject to revision due to ongoing combat activities.

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Timeline

2026-09-14
Pentagon inspector general report published
The report provided additional details on aircraft losses and operational incidents during the Iran conflict.
Militarytimes
2026-10-05
CRS report revision released
The Congressional Research Service updated its report to show 81 U.S. aircraft lost or damaged since February 28, 2026.
Militarytimes
2026-10-08
Total cost of war reported
The total cost of the Iran war has been reported to exceed $45 billion, not including infrastructure damage.
News.Yahoo

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Common questions

What types of aircraft are affected?
The losses include fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and uncrewed aircraft, notably MQ-9 Reaper drones and F-15E Strike Eagles.
What is the estimated cost of the losses?
The estimated cost of the lost or damaged aircraft ranges from $1.9 billion to $3.3 billion.
How is Congress responding to this report?
Congress is questioning the adequacy of information provided by the Pentagon regarding aircraft losses and considering funding for repairs or replacements.