U.S. Deploys F-15 Fighters to Defend Key Outpost in the Indian Ocean

The United States has deployed at least four F-15 fighter jets to its strategic military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, bolstering defenses amid rising regional tensions.

A spokesperson from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) confirmed on May 16 that several F-15s have arrived at the remote atoll to help “protect forward-deployed forces stationed there.”

Commercial satellite imagery analyzed by The War Zone shows at least four F-15s on the ground at Diego Garcia, although the images have not been released publicly. While the exact variant remains unconfirmed, defense analysts believe they are likely F-15E Strike Eagles, a dual-role fighter known for both air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities.

The satellite image also revealed the presence of:

• Four B-52H bombers

• Five KC-135 aerial refueling tankers

• A C-17 cargo aircraft

• One passenger jet

According to tracking data, the F-15s appear to have arrived by May 14, while the B-52s had already been on-site for about a week.

In recent months, the U.S. has ramped up operations at Diego Garcia. At one point, the Pentagon deployed 10 strategic bombers—including six B-2 Spirit stealth bombers—to the island, though the B-2s have since returned to the U.S., with the last group reportedly leaving around May 9.

Diego Garcia, a 30-square-kilometer coral atoll, has long served as a critical outpost for U.S. military operations across the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and the Indian Ocean. It played key roles in the Gulf War, and U.S. campaigns in Afghanistan and Libya.

In March, the U.S. deployed six B-2 bombers—nearly half of its operational fleet—to Diego Garcia in an unusual show of force believed to be aimed at deterring Iran. The stealth bombers later took part in U.S. airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.

Due to its remote location, Diego Garcia has long been viewed as naturally protected from attacks. Its isolation allows the U.S. to launch strategic missions across the region with minimal risk, especially against targets in Iran.

However, defense analysts now caution that Iran’s advancing military capabilities may be changing that equation. Tehran has fielded missile-capable warships and long-range suicide drones, raising concerns that Diego Garcia could be vulnerable to future strikes.

Military analyst Joseph Trevithick of The War Zone noted that F-15E Strike Eagles are well-suited for defending the island from such threats, citing their performance during last year’s coordinated drone and missile assault on Israel by Iran.

“The F-15E’s long range, heavy weapons load, and advanced sensors make it an ideal platform for intercepting sea-based threats, tracking long-range drones, or conducting unconventional reconnaissance near Diego Garcia,” Trevithick said.

(Source: The War Zone)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!