The United States has deployed a squadron of F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets to an Israeli air base, satellite imagery confirms, as President Donald Trump considers military action against Iran amid last-ditch nuclear talks in Geneva. The buildup represents one of the largest American force concentrations in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq War .
Who Spotted the F-22s at Ovda Air Base?
A satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision revealed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel . The fifth-generation F-22 Raptor jets first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday. They are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid Trump’s efforts to secure a deal with Tehran .
The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America’s first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.
What Warships Are Heading to the Middle East?
USS Abraham Lincoln, nuclear-powered carrier with 65+ aircraft and 5,700 crew (333m long), heads from Indo-Pacific via Arabian Sea. USS Gerald Ford (337m, 75+ aircraft, 4,550 crew) deploys as second carrier group for precaution if diplomacy fails. Destroyers USS Michael Murphy, Spruance, Frank E. Petersen Jr., Bainbridge, Mahan, and Winston S. Churchill join.
What Aircraft Are on the Incoming Carriers?
Carriers carry F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18 Super Hornet fighters; EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets; E-2D Hawkeye early warning; MH-60 Seahawk anti-submarine helicopters.
Is Trump considering attacking Iran?
President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 20) that he may be “considering” a limited strike on Iran. “I guess I can say I am considering that,” he said when asked about such a military campaign. According to The New York Times, Trump has told advisers he would contemplate wider military action in the coming months if negotiations and any limited strike do not persuade Tehran to abandon its nuclear program .
Potential targets under consideration include the headquarters of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, nuclear facilities and elements of the country’s ballistic missile infrastructure .
Why the Buildup Amid US-Iran Nuclear Talks?
Images precede Geneva talks as Trump pressures Tehran on nukes. On Feb 20, Trump said he’s “considering” limited strikes: “I guess I can say I am considering that.” Deployment signals deterrence if no deal, per officials.
FAQs
Q: How many F-22s showed in MizarVision satellite images?
A: 11 at Ovda Air Base, Israel, with Patriot systems nearby.
Q: What is USS Abraham Lincoln’s capacity?
A: 65+ aircraft, 5,700 crew, 333m long.
Q: What did Trump say about Iran strikes on Feb 20?
A: “I am considering that” for limited action.
Q: Why send USS Gerald Ford too?
A: Precaution if diplomacy fails with Iran.
Q: What makes F-22 Raptor special?
A: Supercruise supersonic without afterburner; stealth air/ground roles.
Disclaimer: This information is based on inputs from news agency reports. TSG does not independently confirm the information provided by the relevant sources.
