Explainer: What Is ‘Operation Epic Fury’? US Releases Footage From First 100 Hours Of Massive Iran Strike

Introduction

The United States has released combat footage showing the first 100 hours of a major military campaign called “Operation Epic Fury.” The operation involves coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian military targets.

According to the US military, the campaign is one of the most complex and precise aerial operations ever conducted, targeting key Iranian military infrastructure such as missile facilities and naval bases. The release of the footage comes as the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran enters its sixth day, with tensions continuing to escalate across the Middle East.

What Is Operation Epic Fury?

Operation Epic Fury is the name given to the United States’ military strikes against Iranian strategic assets. The operation reportedly began on February 28, with coordinated action between American and Israeli forces. The strikes targeted multiple Iranian military sites, including missile launch facilities, naval bases, and strategic infrastructure believed to support Iran’s military capabilities. According to the US military command, the aim of the operation is to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten American forces and allies in the region.

Footage From The First 100 Hours

The video released by United States Central Command shows several aspects of the early stages of the operation.

The footage includes:

• Fighter jets flying combat missions
• Missiles launched from US naval warships
• Airstrikes targeting vehicles and military installations
• Night-time missile launches at Iranian infrastructure

A voiceover in the video describes the campaign as “the most lethal, most complex and most precise aerial operation in history.”

The footage highlights the scale of the operation and the advanced technology deployed by the US military.

Key Weapons And Aircraft Used

The operation involved several advanced American weapons systems and aircraft designed for stealth and precision attacks.

Among the major systems reportedly used were:

• Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit stealth bombers
• Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets
• General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper armed drones

In addition, the US deployed the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system, which is designed to intercept and destroy short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.

First Combat Use Of LUCAS Drone System

One of the notable aspects of the operation is the reported first combat use of a new American drone system called LUCAS. Low-cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS) is a new drone platform designed to carry out precision strikes at relatively low cost. The system is believed to be modeled after the Iranian-made Shahed-136 loitering munition, which has been widely used in the Russia–Ukraine War. The deployment of LUCAS drones marks a significant development in modern drone warfare.

Reports Of Iran’s Supreme Leader Being Killed

Reports from the conflict indicate that the coordinated strikes by the US and Israel led to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. His death has reportedly triggered a strong retaliation from Tehran and escalated tensions in the region. Iran has vowed to respond to the attacks, raising fears of a broader conflict involving multiple countries in the Middle East.

Why The Operation Matters

The launch of Operation Epic Fury represents a major escalation in the confrontation between Iran and its adversaries.

Several factors make the operation significant:

• It involves direct US and Israeli military coordination
• It targets Iran’s core military infrastructure
• It showcases advanced American military technology and drone warfare
• It risks triggering a wider regional war

The operation also reflects growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the strategic rivalry between Iran and Western allies.

Conclusion

With heavy strikes continuing and Iran promising retaliation, the situation remains volatile. Military analysts say the coming days could determine whether the conflict remains limited or expands into a broader regional war involving additional countries. For now, the release of the first 100 hours of Operation Epic Fury footage highlights the scale and intensity of the ongoing military campaign.