US Air Defense Boosts Reach Israel Ahead of Iran

Ten US Air Force transport aircraft touched down at Israeli Air Force bases in southern Israel on Thursday, arriving from Fort Bliss in Texas. The movement is part of a wider regional air convoy that also delivered cargo to Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

The flights follow US warnings earlier in the week of a potential short, focused war with Iran. KAN News reported that the aircraft likely carry air defense systems intended to protect regional assets. Fort Bliss holds one of the US military's largest stockpiles of air defense equipment, suggesting the load may include interceptor missiles for THAAD and Patriot systems.

The specific aircraft types were not confirmed, but KAN identified them as likely C-5M Super Galaxys or C-17 Globemaster IIIs, both of which can lift heavy cargo. The planes landed at Ovda and Nevatim, with Nevatim serving as home to several F-35I squadrons.

An Israeli source told KAN that the US and Israel are coordinating closely on Iran. The source noted that an additional US naval aircraft carrier and a Marine unit are expected to join American forces in the region. "Although a decision has not yet been made on the matter, the Americans and Israel are preparing for any decision that [US] President [Donald] Trump makes," the source said.

The arrival of the transports coincides with reports that US forces across the Middle East are replenishing weapons stockpiles. Some American troops have also been ordered to leave the region as the buildup continues.