Iran conflict 2026: Israel declares air superiority over Tehran
The crew of an IAF Boeing F-15 prepares for its mission during the opening hours of Operation ‘Roaring Lion' against Iran in late February. (Israeli Air Force)
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has declared air superiority over Tehran, citing the destruction of enemy air-defence systems and command centres just a day into the US-led conflict with Iran.
The IAF made its announcement on 1 March, saying that its combat aircraft were now operating freely over the Iranian capital city under the auspices of Operation ‘Roaring Lion'.
“Aerial superiority achieved over Tehran – The IAF has been operating over the skies over Tehran, striking and eliminating numerous targets. Targets struck include ballistic missile launchers, headquarters, Iranian air-defence systems, and command centres of the Iranian terrorist regime,” the IAF said, adding that more than 700 sorties and thousands of munitions dropped since operations were launched alongside the US Operation ‘Epic Fury' mission on 28 February.
No breakdown of the Israeli aircraft operating over Tehran was provided, but the announcement included footage of a Lockheed Martin F-16I Sufa, while IAF social media posts related to the operation feature imagery of the Boeing F-15D Baz also. While the IAF's Boeing F-15I Ra'am and Lockheed Martin F-35I Adir jets were not featured in official announcements, they are likely being employed in deep strike roles throughout the Iranian area of operations.
For more, please see:
Feature: Iran counts cost following Israel's strikes on long-range radars
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