Israel and the US have launched a formidable united offensive against Iran, branded Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the US. The assault commenced on February 28, 2026, targeting Iran's military, nuclear, and government assets in cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz.
A fleet of 200 Israeli Air Force (IAF) fighter jets carried out a substantial assault on IRGC missile arrays and air defense systems across Iran's western and central regions. Utilizing 1,200 bombs, over 500 targets were struck, including numerous air defenses and missile launchers. The operation was meticulously planned, supported by precise intelligence, and executed with hundreds of jets, enhancing the IAF's air dominance over Iranian airspace.
Source: aajtak
This strike aimed to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions and rising threats. In return, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Israel and American bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar. This confrontation has escalated into a regional conflict.
Tomahawk Cruise Missiles
The Tomahawk is the US Navy's most powerful long-range cruise missile, launched from ships and submarines. With low flight altitudes of 30-50 meters, it effectively evades radar and air defenses. Measuring approximately 5.6 meters long and weighing up to 1600 kg, this missile reaches speeds of 880 kilometers per hour and strikes over 1600 kilometers away. The US deployed Tomahawks against high-value targets in Tehran and other cities during this operation.
F-35I Adir Stealth Fighter Jet
The F-35I Adir is Israel's unique variant of the US-made F-35A Lightning II, with exclusive rights to integrate its own software and hardware. Its stealth design makes it elusive to enemy radar. Equipped with sensor fusion and electronic warfare systems, it enables pilots to penetrate hostile air defenses and conduct reconnaissance and precision attacks in heavily fortified regions like Iran's. In this mission, the F-35I effectively targeted numerous sites within Iranian airspace.
F-15I Ra'm Strike Fighter
The F-15I Ra'm is Israel's long-distance strike fighter, modeled after the US F-15E Strike Eagle, developed following Iraq's Scud missile attacks during the 1991 Gulf War. Entering service in 1998, it carries a substantial payload of bombs and missiles for impactful strikes on remote and fortified targets. The F-15I struck fortress-like locations far from Iran's borders in this conflict.
Delilah and Rampage Stand-Off Cruise Missiles
Delilah and Rampage are Israeli-made stand-off cruise missiles designed to attack from beyond enemy air defense ranges. Delilah excels with loitering capabilities, identifying, confirming, and striking targets. Rampage is a high-speed, long-range missile ideal for hard and time-sensitive targets. In this mission, they were instrumental against crucial Iranian sites.
Source: aajtak
SPICE and JDAM Precision-Guided Bombs
The SPICE kit, crafted by Rafael, transforms conventional bombs into precision-guided munitions with electro-optical guidance, unaffected by GPS jamming. The JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) also enhances bomb accuracy with GPS and inertial navigation. Affordable and all-weather capable, these kits were strategically deployed in multiple locations during this attack.
GBU-28 Bunker-Buster Bomb
The GBU-28 is a 5000-pound laser-guided penetrator bomb designed to demolish deep bunkers, command centers, and hardened nuclear facilities. Its robust casing and substantial weight equip it to pierce reinforced concrete and earth, then detonate. GBU-28 bombs targeted Iran's underground command centers and nuclear sites in this offensive.
Heron and Eitan Armed Long-Range Drones
Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, these long-endurance drones operate at medium altitudes for numerous hours. They are pivotal for reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes, maneuvering deep into enemy territory. In this war, these drones executed surveillance and strike missions deep within Iran.
