US Air Forces Central (AFCENT) has announced a multi-day readiness exercise across the Central Command area of responsibility to demonstrate rapid deployment and sustainment capabilities as tensions with Iran escalate. The drill aims to strengthen the ability to disperse personnel and assets while ensuring airpower remains available across a wide operational theatre.
According to AFCENT, the exercise will test procedures for the swift movement of aircraft and personnel, as well as dispersed operations at contingency locations. It will also assess integrated multinational command and control across large areas, highlighting coordination with regional partners. Teams will deploy to multiple sites to validate rapid setup, launch, and recovery operations using small, efficient support packages.
AFCENT Commander Lieutenant General Derek France said the exercise reflects a commitment to maintaining combat-ready airmen and ensuring disciplined execution under demanding conditions. Officials added that all activities will take place with host-nation approval and in coordination with civil and military aviation authorities.
Military Buildup and Regional Response
The drill comes as Washington reinforces its military posture in the Middle East. The United States deployed the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group earlier this week, while additional Patriot and THAAD air defence systems have also been moved into the region. Officials say these steps aim to protect American forces from possible retaliation.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is reviewing intelligence suggesting Iran’s government faces significant internal pressure. Protests over economic conditions have spread across several cities, prompting earlier warnings from Trump of potential US action if demonstrators were harmed, though he later softened his stance.
Iranian officials have responded with strong warnings, saying any US attack would trigger a swift and comprehensive response. Tehran has also stressed it remains prepared for conflict while prioritising dialogue to resolve disputes.
Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said the country has endured major conflicts before and remains resilient despite rising rhetoric.
