A U.S. Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon departs after refueling with a KC-135 Stratotanker over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, July 29, 2025. As a highly maneuverable and agile platform with a proven record in air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attack, the Fighting Falcon is well-equipped to engage with threats to regional security and deter further aggression in the AOR. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Keegan Putman)