CENTCOM Says Enemy Navy, Aircraft Neutralized as Campaign Enters Fifth Week
U.S.-led Central Command says enemy naval, air, and missile capabilities largely neutralized after five weeks of operations
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The U.S.-led Central Command (CENTCOM) reported substantial operational gains in its ongoing military campaign on Thursday, marking the fifth week of sustained operations.
In a statement posted on X, Admiral Brad Cooper, CENTCOM Commander, said, “Now in our 5th week of the campaign, it is my operational assessment that we are making undeniable progress. We don't see their navy sailing. We don't see their aircraft flying, and their air and missile defense systems have largely been destroyed.”
The campaign, which began in late February, aims to counter regional threats from a state actor whose military capabilities have historically challenged U.S. and allied forces.
According to military analysts, the operation has focused on precision strikes targeting air defense infrastructure, naval assets, and missile deployment sites. This strategy appears to have significantly limited the adversary's operational freedom, particularly in contested maritime and airspaces.
"Now in our 5th week of the campaign, it is my operational assessment that we are making undeniable progress. We don't see their navy sailing. We don't see their aircraft flying, and their air and missile defense systems have largely been destroyed." - Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM… pic.twitter.com/cTHgYJDxCF
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 2, 2026
U.S. officials repeatedly emphasized the fact that neutralizing these systems not only diminishes the adversary’s ability to project force but also safeguards regional shipping lanes and air traffic.
CENTCOM has maintained a steady tempo of operations, leveraging both aerial and maritime assets, as well as intelligence-driven strikes coordinated with allied forces in the region.
While CENTCOM reports considerable progress, officials caution that the situation remains fluid. The potential for retaliatory attacks, asymmetric operations, or escalation remains a concern.
Analysts emphasize that sustaining these gains will require continuous monitoring, flexible operational planning, and cooperation with regional partners, including Gulf allies.
On Wednesday, CENTCOM released a new report on Operation Epic Fury launched on Feb. 28. The new data showed a significant intensification of air operations, with more than 12,300 strategic targets struck within one month. In parallel, over 13,000 combat flights have been conducted, underscoring the scale and persistence of the campaign.
CENTCOM further reported that more than 155 Iranian naval vessels have been damaged or destroyed, indicating substantial degradation of Iran’s maritime capabilities.
The report detailed the categories of targets engaged during the operation, including command and control centers, IRGC headquarters buildings, intelligence sites, and integrated air defense systems. Additional targets included ballistic missile sites, Iranian navy ships and submarines, anti-ship missile positions, and military communication capabilities.
Facilities linked to ballistic missile and drone manufacturing, as well as weapons production and storage bunkers, were also among the objectives. Surface-to-air missile facilities and broader military support infrastructure were likewise struck.