Midnight Hammer F-16 pilots flew their non-stealth jets deep into Iran protecting bombers. Then they flew out critically low on fuel.
A CENTCOM-based US Air Force F-16. Tech. Sgt. Noah J. Tancer/US Air Force Six F-16 pilots escorted B-2 bombers deep into Iranian airspace during Operation Midnight Hammer. Award citations for the aviators revealed refueling disruptions and major in-flight replanning. After the mission, pilots had to contend with "critically low" fuel. During Operation Midnight Hammer in June 2025, US Air Force F-16 fighter jets cleared the way for the B-2 bombers that struck Iran's nuclear facilities. The fighters flew hundreds of miles into Iranian territory, knocked out hostile air defenses, and flew out with very little fuel left in the tank, award citations reveal. Earlier this month, the Air Force awarded six F-16 pilots from the 55th Fighter Squadron the Distinguished Flying Cross for their part in the operation, with special designations for service in combat. The award is bestowed for heroism or extraordinary achievement in flight. Award citations provided by the Air Force to Bus...
