The US Air Force is deploying F-35A fighter jets to the Middle East to counter Russia and Iran.

The US Central Command reported on this.

The statement announces that the 421st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron of the US Air Force, equipped with 12 F-35A fighter jets, was transferred to the Middle East.

The unit arrived at its new location from Hill AFB in Utah.

Having these aircraft in the region will enhance overall security and freedom of navigation.

“In coordination with our regional allies, partners, and the U.S. Navy, the F-35s will partner with A-10 and F-16s already in theater helping monitor the Strait of Hormuz,” the press release said.

The increase in the presence of American aviation in the region began after Iran’s seizure of a commercial vessel in the Persian Gulf and Russia’s attempts to shoot down an American reconnaissance drone over Syria.

Due to modern systems, F-35A fighter jets can detect targets hundreds of kilometers away and at the same time not fall under enemy air defense systems and aviation.

In addition, the use of stealth Technology will allow patrolling the territories on the nearest borders without being detected by the enemy.

Militarnyi previously reported that a Russian fighter jet damaged an American MQ-9 Reaper drone in the sky over Syria.

Lieutenant General Alexus G. Grynkewich, Commander of the US Central Air Forces, called the actions of the Russian military reckless and unprofessional.

According to the department, the operators managed to save the drone and land it on the base.

The American MQ-9 Reaper drone was conducting a counter-terrorist mission against the Islamic State group.