The United States has deployed multiple aerial refueling tanker aircraft to the Middle East as tensions escalate and the possibility of open conflict with Iran grows more imminent.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed on Tuesday that an undisclosed number of KC-135 Stratotanker and KC-46 Pegasus aircraft have been dispatched to US bases across the Gulf region to support ongoing operations and contingency planning.

The move follows a series of deadly exchanges between Israeli and Iranian forces, including recent Israeli airstrikes that killed several top Iranian military commanders. Iranian retaliatory missile launches have also targeted US-linked bases in Syria and Iraq.

Pentagon officials say the tanker deployment is aimed at boosting operational endurance for fighter jets and bombers stationed in the region.

“This posture increase ensures rapid response capabilities across theaters of operation,” a CENTCOM spokesperson said.

Analysts view the refueling support as a key signal that the US is preparing for sustained air operations, should conflict between Iran and Israel escalate into broader regional warfare.

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The Middle East has seen a surge in military activity in recent days. Israel’s elimination of multiple top Iranian commanders has prompted threats of “full retaliation” from Tehran. US forces in the region have also been placed on heightened alert.

The Pentagon has not confirmed whether the deployment includes additional combat aircraft but emphasized it was taking “all necessary measures” to protect US interests and allies.