IDF: 50 fighter jets struck Iranian arms factories in 3-area wave alongside nuclear strikes

The Israeli Air Force deployed approximately 50 fighter jets in strike waves across three areas of Iran on Day 28 (27 March 2026). The IDF confirmed the targets included: a facility used to manufacture various weapons; an Iranian defense ministry site used to develop advanced explosive devices (IEDs) for Iran's proxy groups including Hamas and Hezbollah; and a site used to manufacture components for ballistic missiles and anti-aircraft missiles. These strikes were conducted as part of the same operational waves that targeted the Shahid Khondab Heavy Water Complex (Arak) and the Ardakan yellowcake production plant — making Day 28 one of the most comprehensive single-day strike packages of the conflict, simultaneously attacking nuclear infrastructure, missile production, proxy weapons supply, and IRGC industrial assets. The 50-jet figure provides the clearest indication of the scale of IAF commitment: a 50-aircraft package is equivalent to a major multi-squadron strike requiring extensive tanker, electronic warfare, and intelligence support. IDF releasing these details on Day 29 is consistent with standard post-strike operational security practice.