U.S. Moves Air Tankers And REB Aircraft To The Middle East

• 30.01.2026, 9:12

This could indicate preparations for a major operation against Iran.

During the last 12 hours, intensive movements of the US Air Force aviation over the Atlantic have been recorded, which may indicate the preparation of a large-scale operation in the Middle East.

It is about a group of air tankers KC-46A Pegasus, which synchronously perform a transatlantic flight from the east coast of the United States. This was reported by military analyst @OAlexanderDK in X.

According to open air monitoring data, the planes were performing maneuvers typical of combat aviation escorts. Observers estimate the tankers are supporting a flight of six EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft.

After a daylong layover, the air group has set course for Spain, where a brief stopover or regrouping is expected. The next destination is likely to be Qatar, a key U.S. hub for military operations in the Persian Gulf region.

The EA-18G Growler aircraft specialize in suppressing enemy air defenses and electronic warfare systems, making them a critical element of strike and offensive operations.

The combination of routes, the type of aircraft involved and the pace of the deployment may indicate a political decision to take active action against Iran, although no official statements from Washington have yet been made public.