Israeli aircraft targeted air bases, defense systems, and military installations in response to direct threats against its territory
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The Israeli Air Force (IDF) confirmed, through an official spokesperson, that it carried out a series of large-scale airstrikes against Iranian military targets overnight and into the early hours of Monday.
According to the statement, two F-5 fighter jets belonging to the Iranian military were struck on the ground at Dezful Airport in southwestern Iran.
In addition, during strikes conducted earlier this morning, the IDF destroyed eight missile launchers, six of which were reportedly ready for immediate launch toward Israeli territory.
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More than 20 fighter jets mobilized
In the previous night’s operation, around 20 Israeli Air Force jets participated in the bombing missions under the guidance of the IDF Intelligence Division. Dozens of strategic targets located in central Iran were struck.
Targets included a military facility used in the production of explosive components, weapons storage depots, manufacturing centers, and positions of the Iranian air defense system.
What are the F-5 fighter jets used by Iran?
The F-5 fighter jets targeted by the Israeli Air Force at Dezful Airport are part of a fleet of U.S.-made combat aircraft dating back to the 1960s. Iran received dozens of Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter units before the Islamic Revolution of 1979, during a time when it still maintained military relations with the United States.
Since then, the Iranian Air Force has kept the F-5s operational through domestic upgrades and reverse engineering. Some of these jets have been modernized and redesigned locally, resulting in derivative versions such as the Kowsar—a jet based on the F-5 featuring updated avionics and limited combat capability.
Although considered technologically outdated compared to modern fighters, the F-5s continue to serve roles in light attack missions, advanced training, and air patrol within Iran, especially at bases like Dezful, which is located near the border with Iraq.
Source and images: Spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) | Telegram @idf_telegram. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
