Epic Fury: The Campaign Against Iran’s Missile & Nuclear Infrastructure | HTK

Why It Matters

The operation tests U.S. strategic endurance and reshapes deterrence calculations across the Middle East, influencing global security and defense resource allocation.

Key Takeaways

• US-Israel strike targets Iran's missile, nuclear sites
• Iran launched retaliatory attacks on Israel and US bases
• Operation may strain US munitions stockpiles and readiness
• Missile defense systems face heightened testing during campaign
• Regional escalation risk increases global security tensions

Pulse Analysis

Operation Epic Fury marks one of the most expansive kinetic campaigns the United States has undertaken against Iran since the 2000s. By striking command‑and‑control nodes, missile production sites, and naval facilities, the joint U.S.-Israeli effort seeks to cripple Tehran’s ability to project power regionally. The timing aligns with broader U.S. strategic goals of containing Iran’s nuclear ambitions while signaling unwavering support for Israel. Analysts note that the campaign’s success hinges on precise intelligence, rapid strike coordination, and the ability to sustain pressure without overextending American forces.

Beyond the immediate kinetic effects, the campaign raises pressing logistical challenges for the Pentagon. Sustained high‑tempo operations demand a surge in precision‑guided munitions, spare parts for aircraft, and ready‑to‑fire missile‑defense interceptors. Existing stockpiles, already stretched by conflicts in Ukraine and the Indo‑Pacific, could face depletion, prompting a reassessment of procurement cycles and reserve allocations. Simultaneously, U.S. missile‑defense assets, from Patriot batteries to Aegis ships, are being tested in real‑time, offering valuable data but also exposing potential gaps in coverage and response time.

Geopolitically, Epic Fury reshapes deterrence calculations across the Middle East. Iran’s retaliatory strikes demonstrate its willingness to risk escalation, while regional actors monitor U.S. resolve and the durability of allied support. The operation could compel neighboring states to recalibrate defense postures, potentially spurring arms purchases or diplomatic overtures to mitigate spillover. Moreover, prolonged engagement risks drawing in additional powers, amplifying global security stakes. Understanding these dynamics is essential for policymakers navigating a volatile security environment where strategic patience and resource management are as critical as battlefield outcomes.

Original Description

On February 28th, the United States and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury, a large-scale campaign targeting Iran's national leadership, military forces, and intelligence networks. Iranian retaliatory strikes against Israel, U.S. military bases, and regional partners soon followed. President Trump indicated the operation could continue for weeks or longer as the United States seeks to destroy Iran’s missile and nuclear infrastructure, naval assets, and proxy forces.

The conflict carries significant implications for U.S. strategic forces. What has defined the campaign thus far--and what indicators should we be watching for next? What does a prolonged campaign mean for U.S. munitions inventories, missile defense capacity, and force readiness? How might the operation affect deterrence dynamics and adversary perceptions of U.S. resolve? And what are the broader regional and global risks if the conflict expands? To discuss these questions and more, please join the CSIS Defense and Security Department’s HTK Series for a conversation featuring Heather Williams, director of the CSIS Project on Nuclear Issues, Tom Karako, director of the CSIS Missile Defense Project, and Kari Bingen, director of the CSIS Aerospace Security Project.

This event is made possible by general support to CSIS.

Satellite Imagery Credits:

1. Satellite image ©2026 Vantor

2. Planet Labs PBC

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