Photo Credit: Israel Air Force
The Israeli Air Force’s two F-35I Adirs, and one F-15I Ra’am with the USAF’s single B-52H Stratofortress over the Central Command’s Area of Responsibility in the joint training exercise on Mar. 6, 2025.

According to a report by ABC News, citing an Israeli source familiar with the details, the United States and Israel conducted a joint military exercise approximately a year ago that closely resembled the current strike on Iran. The source indicated that the drill specifically simulated long-range attacks on fortified targets, including nuclear facilities—mirroring the operational challenges posed by Iran’s underground enrichment sites such as Fordow and Natanz.

The exercise reportedly included coordinated aerial maneuvers, in-air refueling, precision strike simulations, and the use of advanced munitions, suggesting a high level of strategic and tactical alignment between the two allies. The source emphasized that while the exercise was officially framed as a defensive readiness drill, its scenarios were modeled on an offensive operation against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

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This revelation adds to growing indications that the current attack was not improvised but rather part of a long-planned operational contingency, reflecting deep military cooperation and shared intelligence planning between Washington and Jerusalem.

In early March, 2025, Israeli F-35i and F-15i jets flew together with a U.S. B-52 strategic bomber during a Bomber Task Force mission over the Mediterranean and the Middle East, practicing deep-strike coordination—widely understood as a message to Iran.

A series of exercises, including Juniper Oak/Juniper Cobra, have involved simulation of strikes on Iran’s “strategic targets in the depth” and practiced aerial superiority, including refueling with U.S. KC-46 tankers to extend Israeli reach.

The U.S. deployed naval and missile-defense assets (Patriot, THAAD, even carrier groups) across the Eastern Mediterranean and Red Sea to protect Israel from Iranian missile/drone attacks.

The purpose of these exercises was three-fold:

Deterrence: These drills broadcast a clear message: U.S. and Israeli forces are interoperable and ready for joint deep-strike or defensive operations.

Capability building: Integrating long-range U.S. bombers, advanced Israeli fighters, tankers, NSA, and missile defense systems enhances joint readiness.

Strategic pressure: With Iran on high alert around its nuclear facilities, these exercises are both practical training and psychological leverage.


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David writes news at JewishPress.com.