In modern conflicts, the protection of sensitive capabilities and operational methods often takes precedence over loss, even of the most costly and sophisticated aircraft.
Costly losses, but deliberate. The US military destroyed two of its own MC-130J Commando II transport planes destined for evacuating a soldier in Iran. This rare decision followed the successful rescue of a Weapons Systems Officer (WSO), the second crew member saved from a downed F-15E fighter jet in Iranian skies.
During this complex rescue mission, the two specialized and high-tech MC-130J transport planes, meant to transport commandos and the aviator to safety, remained stuck on an isolated base in Iran. “The nose gear of at least one, and possibly both, of these planes became stuck in the sand of the runway,” military officials stated.
After the rescue team and crew member were extracted by three new aircraft deployed to the site, a US military unit decided to bomb and destroy the two stranded planes, each valued at around $100 million, to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands, as reported by the New York Times.
The success of this rescue mission and the unimpeded destruction of the aircraft raise questions about Iran’s detection, interception, and reaction capabilities after a month of attacks. Donald Trump presented the mission’s success as evidence that Iranian defenses have been severely damaged, if not destroyed.
Protection of sensitive data prevails over loss
Although the cost of over $100 million per aircraft is significant, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, the US strategy appears evident as these are sensitive and classified systems.
The MC-130J is equipped with very advanced and sophisticated onboard electronic systems that can counter modern threats, including infrared-guided missiles. If recovered intact, this technology could provide valuable intelligence to adversaries and compromise future operations. In modern conflicts, the protection of sensitive operational capabilities and methods often takes precedence over loss, even of the most sophisticated aircraft.
According to several photos and videos, an MH/AH-6 Little Bird helicopter used by special operations forces was also destroyed on-site. It is still unknown whether it was deliberately destroyed by US troops during strikes on the immobilized MC-130Js, or if it was by Iranian forces.
