Iran attacks damaged 20 US military sites since start of war, satellite images show
A BBC analysis using satellite images reveals Iran has damaged 20 US military sites across eight Middle Eastern countries since February, including advanced THAAD missile systems and critical bases like Al Ruwais, Al Sader, and Muwaffaq Salti. The Pentagon claims to have hit over 13,000 targets in Iran during Operation Epic Fury, but analysts argue Iran’s strikes were more precise and extensive than publicly acknowledged, with costs exceeding $29 billion for repairs and replacements.
Iranian strikes since February have damaged 20 US military sites across eight Middle Eastern nations, according to a BBC analysis of satellite images and videos. The attacks targeted US bases and shared facilities in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Lebanon, causing extensive damage to air defense systems, refueling aircraft, and radars. Key losses include three advanced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile batteries at Al Ruwais and Al Sader airbases in the UAE, as well as Muwaffaq Salti Airbase in Jordan. The US operates only eight THAAD batteries globally, each costing around $1 billion and requiring 100 troops to operate. Iranian strikes also hit Ali Al Salem Airbase and Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, destroying fuel bunkers, aircraft hangars, and troop accommodations, along with critical satellite communications equipment at Camp Arifjan. The Pentagon reported striking over 13,000 targets in Iran during Operation Epic Fury, while the White House claimed Iran’s military capability had been largely neutralized. However, analysts argue the damage to US facilities suggests Iran’s counterstrikes were more precise and widespread than acknowledged. A May Pentagon estimate put Operation Epic Fury’s total cost at $29 billion, with much of the spending likely tied to repairing or replacing destroyed equipment. Tensions escalated after the US-Israeli attack on Iran, though a ceasefire mediated by Pakistan took effect on April 8. Subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement, and both sides continue exchanging proposals. Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei highlighted the military’s success, claiming the Middle East is no longer a safe place for American bases. The US has restricted satellite imagery access to limit conflict analysis, but BBC used alternative sources to track damage. A US defense official declined to comment, citing operational security. The conflict’s financial and operational toll underscores its broader impact on regional and global military capabilities.
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