Watch: USAF Destroys Several Iranian Planes in New Combat Footage
Credits to US CENTCOM
The air campaign against Iran hasn’t just targeted missile launchers and command facilities. It has systematically worked through whatever remains of the Iranian Air Force, striking aircraft on airfields across the country while releasing footage documenting the destruction.
What’s Being Hit?
US Central Command released thermal imaging footage showing strikes on Iranian aircraft parked on the ground, including an F-5 fighter positioned between two Fokker F27 aircraft. Open-source analysts examining the footage identified the Fokkers as derelict civilian airframes belonging to Karun Air and Naft Air, aircraft that hadn’t moved from their positions in years. The F-5 may have been operational based on satellite imagery comparisons showing it had recently changed position.
The Iranian regime’s ability to impact U.S. forces and regional partners is rapidly declining, while American combat power continues to build. pic.twitter.com/21TXHbWwFi
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 5, 2026
The derelict status of many Iranian airframes is a recurring theme in the campaign’s strike footage. A significant portion of Iran’s nominal inventory consists of aircraft that haven’t flown in years, parked on airfields and visible in satellite imagery without having moved across multiple imagery cycles. Striking them produces footage of destruction without necessarily eliminating operational capability.
Geolocation of destruction of F-27s and F-5s:
31.33563, 48.76275
Ahvaz International Airport, Khuzestan Province, IranGoogle Earth imagery taken 11/19/2025 for reference (F-5s not present). Aircraft were in current placement on 2/28/26. Runway was seen cratered by 3/05/26. https://t.co/XRMx7NZxWH pic.twitter.com/iZGnxPp4mO
— Evergreen Intel (@vcdgf555) March 6, 2026
Visually confirmed losses compiled by open-source analysts include two F-5s, one F-4, two Su-24s, one Yak-130, and six unidentified fighter jets. Analysts note the actual figure is likely considerably higher, as aircraft destroyed inside hangars would not be visible in available imagery.
