Media: US deployed F-15s to Jordan two weeks ago to counter Iran drone threat

The US Air Force deployed a squadron of F-15 fighter jets to Jordan around two weeks ago to intercept Iranian drones and cruise missiles in the event of an attack on Israel, American and Israeli officials have confirmed.

The jets are intended to strengthen defences in the event of renewed hostilities targeting Israel, Caliber.Az reports, citing Haaretz.

According to officials, the aircraft are now equipped with new counter-drone munitions designed to intercept threats from both Iranian and Houthi forces.

Each F-15 is fitted with dispensers capable of launching 21 small interceptor missiles, allowing a single aircraft to shoot down multiple drones during one mission.

The squadron is normally based in the United Kingdom but has previously been deployed to Jordan during earlier flare-ups, including Iran’s direct attack on Israel in April last year and Israel’s retaliatory strikes in October. 

Despite the enhanced capabilities, US officials say detecting drones remains a key challenge. Many of the unmanned aircraft fly at very low altitudes, making them difficult to spot using conventional radar systems. 

By Aghakazim Guliyev