25.02.2026 13:31
It was noted that the number of warplanes of the United States in the Middle East has exceeded 250, and with the elements in Europe, the total has reached approximately 350; this heavy military presence, which includes stealth jets such as the F-22 and F-35, was illustrated by a photo showing two F-22s landing at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel alongside a refueling aircraft, highlighting the activity in the region.
According to data monitored by international security circles, the U.S. military's air power in the Middle East is steadily increasing. In the latest military inventory assessments at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) data center, it was recorded that the number of U.S. fighter jets in the central region of the Middle East has exceeded 250. This number includes advanced technology stealth jets like the F-35 and F-22, as well as F-16 and F-15 types.
According to the data, this number reaches approximately 350 aircraft when combined with U.S. air assets in Europe. This figure does not include tankers, cargo, and control aircraft; additionally, Israeli fighter jets in the region are not taken into account.
STEALTH JETS AND STRATEGIC BALANCE OF POWER
It is known that the U.S. Air Force has recently deployed advanced stealth aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II to the Middle East. Pentagon officials state that these aircraft have been dispatched for air defense missions in the region, economic deterrence against drone threats, and to support allies.
This development has increased the U.S.'s capacity to be ready for air operations amid rising tensions along the Israel-Iran line. Military analysts are discussing the roles of aircraft like the F-22 and F-35 in mutual deterrence and air superiority in the event of a potential large-scale conflict.
IMAGE OF GMÜÇ AT OVDA
A leaked photo shows two F-22s and a refueling aircraft stationed near Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. This is considered a concrete image of the U.S. presence in the region.
EFFECTS ON REGIONAL BALANCE
Experts indicate that air power of this magnitude serves as both a deterrent and a factor that increases tension for regional countries. Assessments are being made that the U.S. air presence is used as a balancing element in the tension between Israel and Iran.