America deploys half its air force at Iran’s doorstep, why experts feel this is unprecedented

Teheran: The world is closely watching the tension between the USA and Iran reach new levels. By February 20, US forces carried out a military deployment near Iran that experts say is unprecedented in modern history. Nearly half of America’s operational air force is deployed in the region, observers say. This move shows preparation for a major confrontation rather than a mere show of power.

Military experts describe the size of this increase as unprecedented. It includes the most advanced fighter aircraft squadrons based in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Thirty F-35A stealth fighters, capable of evading enemy radar, were deployed along with more than two dozen F-15E Strike Eagles built for heavy bombing.

Famous for targeting tanks and ground forces, the deployment of A-10 Thunderbolts indicated readiness to attack strategic ground targets, while F-16s were deployed to attack enemy aircraft. In addition, six EA-18G Growlers were tasked with securing covert operations by jamming Iranian radar and communications.

Intelligence abilities are also available. The WC-135R “Nuke Sniffer” aircraft monitors radioactive particles in the air, providing information about nuclear sites and potential threats. RC-135 SIGINT aircraft intercept communications and AWACS systems provide long-range radar coverage, guiding fighters in real time.

Experts emphasize that the deployed intelligence network is as critical as firepower and provides US forces with precise information about Iran’s movements.

Logistics strengthens the scale of the operation. More than 160 C-17A heavy transport flights and multiple C-5M Galaxy missions delivered bombs, missiles, supplies and vehicles to bases in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Djibouti. A fleet of KC-135 and KC-46 refueling tankers keeps aircraft in the air for continuous operations without landing.

Marines add another layer of pressure. While the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is deployed in the Arabian Sea with multiple destroyers, the world’s largest and most advanced aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, is moving towards the region with a full escort.

Nuclear-powered submarines armed with Tomahawk missiles patrol the waters. It is capable of striking targets without being detected, and additional warships cover the Mediterranean, Red Sea and Persian Gulf.

Missile defenses are being deployed against Iran’s ballistic and cruise missile arsenal. THAAD batteries and Patriot systems in Saudi Arabia and Qatar provide intercept capabilities, with more than 99 cargo flights delivering the systems to the region.

Analysts emphasize that this level of preparedness cannot be demonstrated alone. This mirrors deployment patterns seen before the Gulf War in 1991 and the invasion of Iraq in 2003. This suggests that the United States is prepared for a large-scale, high-risk conflict if diplomacy fails.

Experts warn that the situation is fluid. The concentration of advanced weapons, intelligence assets and logistical support near Iran indicates that the red line may have already been crossed.

Analysts suggest that any miscalculation could quickly escalate into open conflict, with consequences that could extend far beyond the region. The current US stance is unlike anything seen in previous years. This shows that policymakers are ready for serious military intervention if necessary.