Iranian Drones and Missiles Challenge U.S. Forces' Defenses

U.S. officials report waves of Iranian missile and drone strikes across the Middle East that have tested regional defenses; a drone strike in Kuwait killed six U.S. servicemembers and three F-15s were downed by apparent friendly fire, CENTCOM said.

Iran has launched waves of missile and drone strikes across the Middle East that U.S. officials say are testing regional defenses. U.S. Central Command reported a drone strike on a base in Kuwait that resulted in the deaths of six servicemembers. Separately, three U.S. F-15 jets were downed by apparent friendly fire over Kuwait and their crews ejected and were reported in stable condition. U.S. commanders are coordinating with regional partners to protect bases, diplomatic sites and infrastructure while noting strain on missile-defense munitions. What officials report: - Iranian forces have launched missiles and explosive drones across multiple countries in the region, including attacks on bases in Kuwait, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. - U.S. Central Command said a drone strike on a base in Kuwait caused six U.S. military deaths. - Three U.S. F-15 jets were downed by apparent friendly fire amid regional air-defense activity; crews ejected and were reported in stable condition, CENTCOM said. - Officials have said U.S. and partner air defenses have at times been overwhelmed and that there is strain on missile-defense munitions. Summary: These reported strikes have tested U.S. defensive arrangements across the region and have coincided with U.S. military casualties and equipment losses, according to officials. The campaign has highlighted coordination challenges with regional partners and pressure on missile-defense supplies. Undetermined at this time.