Story perspectives

Report: U.S. lost 81 aircraft and drones in 2026

By Drooid · Oct 9, 2026, 1:33 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

US Military Aircraft Losses

U.S. military has lost or damaged at least 81 aircraft and drones in the Middle East since Feb. 28, 2026.
Congressional Research Service updated the tally to 81 on Oct. 5, 2026, nearly doubling the May count of 42.
Replacement costs for the lost equipment are estimated between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion.
MQ-9 Reaper drones account for 45 losses, each valued at $30-$50 million.
An F-35A Lightning II was damaged by Iranian ground fire on March 19, 2026.

Summary

Congress Reviews Losses

Congressional leaders are urged to assess whether Pentagon aircraft-loss reporting provides sufficient detail.
Lawmakers must decide funding for repairs, replacements, and industrial capacity to meet demand.
The report flags potential capability gaps in high-demand platforms such as the aging E-3 Sentry.
CRS warns losses could undermine U.S. military sales to foreign partners.
CBO estimates Operation Epic Fury’s total cost exceeds $38 billion, covering munitions, equipment losses and other expenses.

1 of 2

US Military Aircraft Losses

U.S. military has lost or damaged at least 81 aircraft and drones in the Middle East since Feb. 28, 2026.
Congressional Research Service updated the tally to 81 on Oct. 5, 2026, nearly doubling the May count of 42.
Replacement costs for the lost equipment are estimated between $1.9 billion and $3.3 billion.
MQ-9 Reaper drones account for 45 losses, each valued at $30-$50 million.
An F-35A Lightning II was damaged by Iranian ground fire on March 19, 2026.

1 / 2