Episode notes
17 Feb 2026
The United States is deploying a significant military force to the Middle East, including 18 F-35s, 36 F-16s, 12 F-22s, two early warning aircraft, and 18 F-15s. This massive strike package, supported by multiple refueling tankers, aims to establish air superiority and potentially launch strikes on Iran. The deployment comes amidst collapsed negotiations and threats from the Iranian Ayatollah.
Negotiations between the United States and Iran have stalled, with Iran refusing to compromise on its nuclear programme, ballistic missiles, and support for proxies. Iran’s Supreme Leader has threatened to sink US aircraft carriers, escalating tensions. The US has responded by deploying F-22 and F-35 fighter jets to the region, ready to launch an attack if necessary.