Open-source military tracking analysts, including those cited by DefenceGeek, report that around 100 U.S. aerial refuelling tanker aircraft have been positioned or are moving toward bases in Europe and the Middle East to support potential operations related to rising tensions with Iran.
These include KC-135 and KC-46A tankers flowing from the United States toward forward locations, underpinning sustained fighter and support aircraft deployments in the region.
The build-up reflects strategic airpower posturing as Washington readies forces amid stalled diplomacy and increased regional risks.
IRGC Drone Strikes Kuwait’s Oil Refinery
IRGC drones struck the Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery in Kuwait in the early hours of Friday morning, sparking fires across several operating units. Kuwait Petroleum Corporation
3 April 2026
