Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force

organization

Last mentioned: Mar 24, 2026

Timeline

2026
Fleet Destruction

Airstrikes reportedly destroy the last operational airframes in Iran.
2006
U.S. Retirement

The U.S. Navy retires the F-14; Iran becomes the sole operator.
1980
Iran-Iraq War

The F-14 becomes the dominant air-to-air platform in the conflict.
1979
Islamic Revolution

U.S. cuts off all support and spare parts for the Iranian military.
1974
The 'Persian Cat' Deal

The Shah of Iran signs a deal for 80 F-14 Tomcats and 714 Phoenix missiles.

Stories mentioning Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force 1

End of an Era: Airstrikes Reportedly Destroy Iran's Final F-14 Tomcat Fleet

Recent airstrikes have reportedly eliminated the final operational F-14 Tomcats within the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force, concluding a fifty-year operational history. These aircraft were the last of their kind flying anywhere in the world following the U.S. Navy's retirement of the platform two decades ago.

Mar 24, 2026 6 sources