Over 300 US military aircraft deployed to CENTCOM ahead of Iran talks

More than 300 US military aircraft have been deployed to Central Command bases across the Middle East as indirect nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran approach Thursday in Geneva, according to open-source intelligence tracking compiled by Anadolu. The unprecedented buildup includes combat jets, tankers, electronic warfare aircraft, and missile defense systems positioned at key installations in Qatar, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.

Composition of US Air Power

The assembled force includes approximately 84 F-18E/F fighter jets, 36 F-15E strike aircraft, 48 F-16C/CJ/CM multirole fighters, and 42 F-35A/C stealth jets, constituting nearly 70% of deployed aircraft. Support assets include 18 EA-18G "Growler" electronic warfare planes, 12 A-10C close air support aircraft, and critical command and control platforms. An estimated 75 KC-46 and KC-135 aerial refueling tankers remain positioned in the region or en route, enabling extended combat operations. No B-2 bombers, used in last June's Operation Midnight Hammer against Iranian nuclear facilities, have been observed moving toward the theater.

Israeli Force Multiplication

Israel's own substantial air fleet—comprising 66 F-15I/C/D, 173 F-16I/C/D, and 48 F-35I fighters—effectively doubles the strike aircraft available for potential operations against Iran. On Tuesday, Israel received 12 US F-22 "Raptor" stealth fighters, the most advanced in the American arsenal, according to public broadcaster KAN, with six additional F-22s spotted departing Langley Air Force Base for Israel via RAF Lakenheath. The F-22s are capable of "penetrating enemy territory and disabling air defense systems and radar installations," potentially serving as the spearhead for any military action.

Diplomatic Context

The White House reiterated Tuesday that "President Trump's first option is always diplomacy," while making clear he is "willing to use the lethal force of the United States military if necessary." Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt cited Operation Midnight Hammer's success in obliterating Iranian nuclear facilities but cautioned that the threat persists. Thursday's Omani-mediated talks in Geneva represent a critical juncture, with Iran expected to present a draft proposal as Washington maintains maximum military pressure alongside diplomatic engagement.