The current pace of redeployment is the steepest spike seen since February's Operation EPIC FURY, reversing a September drawdown that had left analysts skeptical of renewed US strikes. During that period, total tanker numbers across Europe and the Middle East fell to 161 aircraft from a wartime peak of 232. While assets in the Middle East had remained above 100 airframes, many were shifted to bases in Qatar and the UAE following a prior ceasefire.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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US Deploys Special Operations Aircraft in Steepest Middle East Build Up Since February
War9 days ago
Two EA-37B Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft have arrived at Crete and MC-130J Commando II special operations transports are redeploying to the US Central Command region. Ramstein Air Base is now operating at maximum capacity, with all aircraft movements restricted to high-priority missions to facilitate the buildup. These movements coincide with nearly 20 KC-135 and KC-46 tankers arriving at European bases, including Sigonella and Constanța, following a Pentagon order for forces to finish preparing for major combat against Iran and Houthi targets.
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