The US Air Force intensifies its presence in the Middle East with the imminent sending of dozens of additional A-10 “Warthog” attack planes. Already engaged against the Iranian navy in the Strait of Hormuz, these aircraft would bolster American military capabilities in the event of occupation or blockade of the Kharg Island and could also provide valuable close air support during commando raids deeper into Iran.
According to the online media outlet specializing in military news, The War Zone, dozens of additional American A-10 “Warthogs” appear ready to join Operation Epic Fury.
Flight tracking data, reviewed by our colleagues, indicates that the US Air Force is preparing to send a formation of A-10s across the Atlantic. Three KC-135 Stratotanker refuelers had already taken off from Mildenhall base in England, apparently to join a group of eight “Warthogs” heading in the opposite direction.
Additionally, as per TWZ, around twenty A-10s have gathered at Portsmouth International Airport at Pease, New Hampshire, a usual departure point for flights to Lakenheath Air Base in England, which has seen a significant influx of American combat aircraft in recent weeks.
According to our colleagues, these “Warthogs” are from the 124th Fighter Wing of the Idaho Air National Guard at Gowen Field and the 127th Fighter Wing of the Michigan Air National Guard at Selfridge Air Base.
Precious in case of occupation of Kharg Island or commando raids deeper into Iran
As mentioned, the A-10s are already involved in dismantling the Iranian navy, operating in the Strait of Hormuz as part of broader efforts by the US military to find solutions to reopen this crucial maritime passage to commercial shipping, nearly paralyzed by Iranian attacks on ships and the declaration of the strait’s closure by Iran. Additionally, A-10s have been observed on multiple occasions attacking Iranian-backed militias in Iraq.
As highlighted by The War Zone, the increased deployment of A-10s in the Middle East would strengthen American military capabilities in the event of occupation or blockade of the strategically vital Iranian Kharg Island. The A-10s could also provide valuable close air support during commando raids conducted deeper into Iran.
