U.S. Launches Extensive Strikes Against Iranian Targets in ‘Operation Epic Fury’
WASHINGTON – U.S. forces, at the direction of the President of the United States, initiated large-scale strikes against Iranian military targets on February 28, 2026, under the banner of “Operation Epic Fury.” The operation, confirmed by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), targeted elements of Iran’s security apparatus deemed to pose an imminent threat.
The strikes, which began at 1:15 a.m. Eastern Time, focused on Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command and control facilities, Iranian air defense systems, and sites used for launching missiles and drones. CENTCOM reported employing precision munitions launched from air, land, and sea platforms in a coordinated effort to dismantle capabilities linked to recent attacks threatening U.S. and partner forces in the region.
“The President ordered bold action, and our brave Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen are answering the call,” stated Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM.
Following the initial wave of strikes, U.S. forces successfully defended against hundreds of retaliatory missile and drone attacks launched by Iran. CENTCOM reported no U.S. casualties or combat-related injuries, and described damage to American installations as minimal and not impacting ongoing operations.
Notably, the operation marked the first combat employment of low-cost one-way attack drones by CENTCOM’s Task Force Scorpion Strike. These systems, also known as loitering munitions, were used alongside conventional weapons to engage targets with precision while minimizing risk to piloted aircraft. Their use underscores a growing reliance on unmanned systems in modern warfare.
CENTCOM described Operation Epic Fury as representing “the largest regional concentration of American military firepower in a generation,” signaling the significant scale of forces deployed. U.S. officials indicated that partner forces also participated in coordinated attacks against Iranian military infrastructure.
While CENTCOM has not disclosed precise strike locations or the number of assets involved, citing operational security, the operation represents one of the largest coordinated U.S. military actions in the region in recent years. The defensive phase following the strikes demonstrated layered air and missile defense operations, successfully intercepting incoming threats and maintaining operational continuity at U.S. bases.
