The United States reportedly introduced at least three new weapons systems during the first wave of Operation Epic Fury against Iran. Officials said the assault included kamikaze drones, an upgraded Tomahawk cruise missile, and a next-generation precision-strike missile.
One of the weapons, the Lucas (FLM-136) drone, is modeled after Iran’s Shahed-136. It is described as a low-cost, long-range system capable of hitting targets beyond direct sight, making it cheaper and easier to produce than traditional missiles.
Footage also showed a black-painted Tomahawk missile, believed to be an upgraded Maritime Strike Tomahawk. Analysts suggest the darker coating may improve stealth by reducing radar or infrared detection as it travels toward its target.
In addition, US forces launched a precision-strike missile from HIMARS systems. The missile, designed to replace ATACMS, can reportedly reach targets up to 500km away, likely aimed at air defense systems and military infrastructure inside Iran.
