US faces scrutiny after reported heavy aircraft losses in Iran war

A Senate committee hearing in Washington highlighted growing scrutiny over U.S. military losses in the Iran conflict after Democratic Congressman Ed Case cited a defense publication reporting 39 aircraft destroyed and 10 damaged since February 28. Case questioned Pentagon Chief Financial Officer Jay Hurst about long-term repair costs and retention expenses tied to the losses, though Hurst declined to confirm the figures directly, stating estimates required detailed inspections. The defense report referenced in the hearing claimed the U.S. Air Force conducted nearly 13,000 flights during the conflict, with losses including an F-35A Lightning II fighter jet struck in Iranian airspace and a Boeing E-3 Sentry surveillance aircraft destroyed. Pentagon officials did not publicly confirm the losses, leaving lawmakers frustrated by the lack of transparency and raising concerns over the true scale of damage. The conflict escalated after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israel and U.S. allies in the Gulf. Iran temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global maritime traffic and triggering fears of broader economic instability. A ceasefire brokered by Pakistan on April 8 was later extended by President Donald Trump, though no permanent settlement was reached. The hearing underscored political pressure on Washington to address the financial and operational costs of the war, with reports of aircraft losses and damage becoming central to ongoing debates. Lawmakers called for greater accountability from defense authorities as the conflict’s impact on U.S. military resources and global stability remains unclear. Despite the truce, regional tensions persist, and the reported losses have intensified scrutiny over the Pentagon’s preparedness and transparency. The discussion reflects broader concerns about the conflict’s duration and its strain on U.S. military capabilities.