Iran F-4D/E/RF-4E Fleet Update
Iran - Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force
| Date | March 1, 2026 |
| Country | Iran |
| Force | Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force |
| Aircraft | F-4D/E/RF-4E (F-4 Phantom II) |
| Change | -1 active |
Description
On March 1, 2026, the Israeli Air Force struck Tabriz airport in western Iran as part of Operation Roaring Lion. An F-4 Phantom II was destroyed on the runway while being prepared for takeoff. The IDF released targeting video of the precision strike and stated the operation was conducted to degrade the Iranian Air Force's operational capabilities and further dismantle its aerial defense network. The F-4 Phantom, originally acquired from the United States before the 1979 revolution, remains one of Iran's most capable strike aircraft despite its age.
