Iranian Missile Strikes in Jordan Severely Damage US Military Aircraft Fleet
Several US warplanes, including F-15s and an A-10 Warthog, were damaged in Iranian strikes on a Jordanian base, raising urgent concerns about American military readiness in the region.
By Ravi Menon · First published 11 Sept 2026
In brief
- Iran launched missile strikes against the US-run Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, targeting American military aircraft.
- An A-10 Thunderbolt, known as the Warthog, lost a wing and several F-15s suffered varying levels of damage.
- US officials have acknowledged significant damage and are assessing the impact on operational capabilities in the region.
- The strikes have exposed security vulnerabilities at the base and heightened tensions between the US and Iran.
- The US military is currently evaluating next steps and considering how to reinforce security and readiness in the area.
Timeline · 5 moments
Iranian missile strikes hit US base in Jordan overnight
Middle East Eye ↗A-10 Warthog loses a wing, F-15s damaged in attack
NDTV News - World-news News ↗US officials acknowledge significant aircraft damage after Iranian strike
CBS Top Stories ↗US military continues damage assessment at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base
NDTV News - World-news News ↗Iranian officials welcome US admission of successful strikes
Middle East Eye ↗How it started
Tensions between the US and Iran had been building for weeks, with both sides exchanging warnings and accusations over military presence and activities in the Middle East. The Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, which hosts US forces and aircraft, became a focal point for potential conflict due to its strategic significance.
In early September 2026, reports began to circulate that Iran was preparing retaliatory actions in response to perceived US threats and ongoing disputes over regional influence. The airbase in Jordan was identified as a likely target due to its role in US operations.
How it unfolded
On the night of September 10, 2026, Iranian forces launched missile strikes targeting the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. The attack caused immediate alarm, with initial reports confirming damage to several US military aircraft stationed at the base.
According to multiple sources, an A-10 Thunderbolt II suffered severe damage, losing a wing in the strike. Several F-15 fighter jets also sustained damage, though most were described as minor and quickly returned to service. However, the incident highlighted the vulnerability of US assets in the region.
US officials, after inspecting the aftermath, publicly acknowledged the extent of the damage. They admitted that the attack revealed critical failures in base security and force protection. The incident also prompted broader discussions about the safety of other US installations in the Middle East.
As the news spread, Iranian officials publicly welcomed US admissions of the effectiveness of their strikes, framing it as a demonstration of their military capability. The episode quickly became a flashpoint in ongoing regional tensions.
Where it stands
US military officials are still assessing the full impact of the strikes on their operational capabilities. While some aircraft have reportedly returned to service, the loss of the A-10 Thunderbolt and the damage to multiple F-15s have raised serious concerns about readiness.
Security protocols at the base are under review, and there is a growing debate in Washington and among US allies about the next steps. The situation remains tense, with both sides closely watching for further escalation or retaliation.
What to watch
Key questions remain about how the US will respond to the strikes and whether additional security measures will be put in place at bases across the region. Observers are also watching for any further Iranian actions or statements that could signal more attacks or a shift in strategy.


