Congressional report reveals US lost 81 aircraft in Iran war, costing up to $3.3 billion

Key points

• The Congressional Research Service (CRS) report lists 81 US aircraft as lost or damaged since Operation Epic Fury began on Feb. 28, 2026.
• MQ-9 Reaper drones account for 45 of the losses, with the Air Force having lost about 35% of its fleet since 2004.
• Notable losses include an F-35A Lightning II, an E-3 Sentry, 12 F-15E Strike Eagles, and seven KC-135 Stratotankers.
• The cost to replace the damaged or lost aircraft is estimated between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion by the Congressional Budget Office.
• The total cost of the war is reported to be at least $45 billion, excluding infrastructure damage at US bases.
• CRS warns that losses in aging, scarce platforms like the E-3 Sentry could create capability gaps in other theaters.

Background

Previous coverage in September 2026 indicated that the Iran war had already cost over $3.3 billion in aircraft and equipment, with the MQ-9 Reaper fleet suffering the heaviest losses. A Pentagon inspector general report in September 2026 estimated the war cost at $33.4 billion through June, noting broad damage to US bases and aircraft. The current CRS report updates these figures, reflecting additional losses and a higher total cost.

How outlets are covering it

CNN, Military Times, Stars and Stripes, and Fox News all report the 81 aircraft figure from the CRS report, but emphasize different aspects. CNN highlights the total war cost of $45 billion and the vague nature of Pentagon reporting. Military Times focuses on the near-doubling of losses since May and the specific incidents, such as the KC-135 crash and the MH-60S Sea Hawk loss. Stars and Stripes notes the mix of causes for losses, including friendly fire and accidents, and the Defense Department's refusal to comment. Fox News emphasizes the strain on the defense industrial base and the potential for capability gaps in other theaters, particularly regarding the E-3 Sentry.

Why it matters

The significant loss of aircraft, especially critical and aging platforms like the E-3 Sentry and MQ-9 Reaper, raises concerns about the US military's ability to maintain readiness and deterrence in other regions, such as the Pacific. The high cost of replacements and the total war cost of $45 billion will likely impact future defense budgets and industrial capacity. The report also prompts questions about the adequacy of information provided to Congress and the long-term effects on US military posture and foreign sales.

What to watch

Congress is expected to review the CRS report and consider funding for repairs or replacements. The Defense Department may need to adjust its procurement and production plans to address the losses. The report may also lead to a reassessment of US basing strategies and force posture in the Middle East. The total cost of the war and the impact on military readiness will likely be key topics in upcoming budget discussions.