Where Is Iran’s Air Force?
Iranian Air Force Remains Inactive Amid Clashes with Israel
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has achieved complete air superiority over Iran during the intense fighting of recent days, while the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) has offered virtually no resistance — reinforcing the perception of a strategic and operational collapse on the Iranian side.
In just 48 hours, the IAF launched multiple waves of strikes against Iranian targets, including radars, missile launchers, and aircraft on the ground. At least two F-14 fighter jets (which Iran claims had been inactive for years) and one KC-747 aerial refueling tanker — likely the only operational unit of its kind — were destroyed. Israeli forces also inflicted damage on Tehran’s air defense system, paving the way for deep strikes as far as the Fordow nuclear facility.
Israeli pilots reported that, upon entering Iranian airspace, they observed IRIAF pilots take off briefly before retreating to avoid combat.
“We saw their jets take off — and then flee,” said an IAF commander.
This statement highlights the IRIAF’s total absence from direct aerial engagement. Prior to the strikes, Israeli intelligence — including Mossad units — had already neutralized critical air defense systems using drones and sabotage. Subsequently, Israeli F-35, F-15, and F-16 fighters targeted and destroyed advanced missile systems like the S-300 and Bavar-373 — the latter considered a significant technical achievement.
With the IRIAF effectively forced to withdraw, the IAF now holds a strategic air advantage, enabling flexible and deep strikes on sensitive targets within Tehran. The continuation of air operations before Iran’s ballistic missile retaliation diminishes Tehran’s ability to respond unilaterally.
The operational silence of the IRIAF reveals a severe breakdown in readiness and morale, potentially leaving Iranian airspace vulnerable to further attacks. This could erode confidence within Iran’s armed forces and undermine their territorial defense capabilities.
Wider Context of the Air War
Since June 13, Israel has deployed approximately 200 fighter jets and dropped over 300 precision-guided bombs on Iranian targets. In response, Iran has launched ballistic missile and drone attacks — but without the capability to regain air control.
Israel’s sustained air superiority, in the absence of any effective IRIAF response, could prove decisive. It opens the door for deeper and more strategic operations within Iranian territory — without the risk of direct aerial confrontation.
SOURCE: Poder Aéreo
