In response to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, dozens of U.S. Air Force aerial refueling tankers have been deployed to European military bases. The deployment, which includes a mix of KC-46 Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotanker jets, provides the U.S. military with additional flexibility as it assesses potential involvement in the conflict. The move also coincides with the U.S. Navy sending the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier to the Middle East, reports Air & Space Forces Magazine.
The decision to send these tankers to Europe is part of a broader U.S. strategy to maintain readiness amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East. As Israel’s military campaign against Iran continues, U.S. officials are considering how best to respond, balancing support for Israel with broader regional stability concerns.
Deployment of Tankers to European Bases
Dozens of U.S. aerial refueling tankers have flown from U.S. military bases to locations in Europe, including Morón Air Base in Spain and Ramstein Air Base in Germany.
According to flight tracking data, these tankers are positioned to support potential operations in the Middle East without immediately entering U.S. bases in the region. This strategic positioning offers President Trump and the U.S. military enhanced flexibility in their decision-making. As of June 16, these tankers had not advanced further east, suggesting that the U.S. is still evaluating its role in the conflict.
The deployment is part of a broader military response that includes additional U.S. forces being sent to the region. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on June 16 that additional capabilities were being sent to U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, emphasizing the protection of U.S. forces as a top priority.
U.S. Support for Israel’s Military Actions
Israel’s ongoing air campaign against Iran began on June 12, with the Israeli Defense Forces reporting over 200 warplanes involved in strikes on Iranian military and nuclear targets. Although the Trump administration has stated that the U.S. is not directly involved in Israel’s airstrikes, Israeli officials have confirmed U.S. support in defending Israel from Iranian retaliation.
According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, American pilots have assisted in shooting down drones aimed at Israeli cities, while U.S. air defense systems, such as THAAD batteries, have helped intercept missiles launched from Iran.
The U.S. has a long history of supporting Israel in its defense efforts, including providing air defense systems and fighter jets in previous confrontations with Iran. Similar assistance was offered during confrontations in 2024 when U.S. and allied forces helped down drones and missiles aimed at Israel.
Global Responses to the Escalating Tensions
In addition to U.S. support, other countries are also responding to the escalating situation. The United Kingdom, for example, deployed additional fighter jets to the Middle East, signaling its ongoing commitment to supporting Israel.
The Royal Air Force has been involved in similar operations in the past, helping Israel defend against Iranian missile attacks. As the conflict continues to unfold, military deployments and international cooperation are likely to play a key role in shaping the region’s security landscape.
