Iran deploys Yak-130 jets amid escalating US-Israel tensions

TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly deployed Yakovlev Yak-130 aircraft in Tehran as tensions escalate during what Iranian sources describe as an “imposed” conflict involving the United States and Israel.

Originally developed as the “Yak/AEM-130” through collaboration between Russia’s Yakovlev and Italy’s Aermacchi, the Yak-130 is a subsonic, two-seat advanced jet trainer. In addition to its training role, it has been marketed as a light combat aircraft capable of performing attack missions.

Unverified reports circulating in Israeli media claim that one of these aircraft may have been shot down on Wednesday during what is described as the third phase of joint US-Israel military operations against Iran. However, there has been no official confirmation of such an incident.

Meanwhile, concerns are mounting within the United States over the sustainability of ongoing military operations. According to a report cited by Al Jazeera, senior officials at the US Department of Defense have warned that continued conflict could significantly deplete US missile stockpiles within as little as 10 days.

Pentagon officials have reportedly briefed President Donald Trump on the strategic and financial risks of prolonged engagement. A key concern is the rapid consumption of advanced interceptor missiles and precision-guided munitions—critical components of US missile defense systems.

The report indicates that certain interceptor systems could be exhausted within days if the current pace of operations continues. Replenishing these weapons would require substantial financial investment and long production timelines, potentially impacting overall US military readiness.

The strain on US stockpiles is further compounded by ongoing military support to allies, including Israel and Ukraine. Over the past year, Washington has already committed significant resources, including the deployment of approximately 25% of its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors—around 150 missiles—to counter Iranian threats. Naval interceptor systems have also seen heavy usage in prior engagements.