World
Iran Shocks World: US Suffers Massive Losses Including F-35 Fighter Jet
May 21, 2026 Source: News Katha
A recent US Congress report has highlighted significant losses suffered by the United States during a military operation against Iran, reportedly called “Operation Epic Fury.” According to the report, the conflict resulted in the destruction or serious damage of 42 US military aircraft and drones, along with financial losses estimated at ₹2.81 lakh crore.
The report claims that the losses included a mix of advanced fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Among the most notable equipment lost was a fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet, along with four F-15E Strike Eagles and one A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. In addition, the largest portion of losses came from drones, with 25 UAVs destroyed, including 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones and one MQ-4C Triton surveillance drone. Another 11 aircraft were also reported to have been damaged in the operation.
The US military intervention reportedly followed escalating tensions after an Israeli attack on Iran, after which the United States became directly involved in the conflict. The operation was initiated under the US strategy aimed at countering Iran’s alleged nuclear ambitions. US officials, including President Donald Trump, defended the intervention by stating that military action was necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Trump further claimed that US pressure was beginning to show results, suggesting that Iran was moving toward negotiations and potential compromise.
Senior US officials maintained a hardline stance during the conflict. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller reportedly warned that if Iran failed to comply with US conditions related to the nuclear agreement, it could face an unprecedented military response.
On the other hand, Iranian officials strongly pushed back against US pressure and threats. Iranian military sources claimed that the country still possesses advanced weapons systems that have not yet been deployed in combat. They warned that any further military escalation would be met with a strong and unrestricted response. According to statements attributed to Iranian officials and reported by Russian media, Iran has developed sophisticated indigenous weapons that have neither been tested nor used on the battlefield yet, signaling its readiness for continued confrontation if necessary.
Overall, the report paints a picture of intense military escalation between the United States and Iran, marked by heavy equipment losses, high financial costs, and growing geopolitical tension. While the US frames the operation as a necessary step to prevent nuclear escalation, Iran continues to assert its military strength and readiness to respond to future attacks.