In Pics | What weapons did US use against Iran in ‘Operation Epic Fury’?
The US and Israel hit over 30 targets in Iran using cruise missiles, rocket systems, drones and advanced air defences, sparking retaliatory missile attacks on American bases and allies across the region.
US-Israel strikes Iran
The United States and Israel carried out coordinated strikes on Iran a day earlier, hitting more than 30 targets in an operation that reportedly killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. The mission was dubbed ‘Operation Epic Fury’ by Washington and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel, unfolding against the backdrop of soaring tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program. In response, Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting Israel and several US military bases across the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.
According to a Business Insider report, citing US officials, American forces deployed a range of advanced weapons systems during the operation. Here’s a closer look at the arsenal used:
Tomahawk cruise missiles
US Navy warships launched Tomahawk cruise missiles in long-range precision strikes against Iranian targets. These missiles can be launched from ships, submarines, and ground launchers and strike targets 1,000 miles away, even in heavily defended airspace.
High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)
Ground-based US forces deployed HIMARS rocket systems to strike fixed targets with speed and accuracy. It is a light, wheeled multiple rocket launcher designed for rapidly firing and relocating to avoid counter-battery fire.
Armed drones and standoff weapons
American forces used armed drones and long-range standoff weapons to conduct surveillance and precision strikes. These systems allow aircraft to engage targets from outside enemy air-defence range, minimising pilot risk while maintaining persistent battlefield awareness.
Patriot air defense system
The US forces also used MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile systems to defend from incoming Iranian missiles. They are designed to intercept aircraft, tactical ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)
The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) is an advanced American anti-ballistic missile system designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight.
US Navy Standard Missiles
US Navy warships equipped with Aegis combat systems fired Standard Missile interceptors to counter incoming threats. Operating from the sea, these missiles extend defensive coverage across the Gulf, reinforcing land-based air defense networks.
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.
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