USAF F-16s launched precision guided GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munitions and laser-guided GBU-12 Paveway bombs against targets in Iraq. In one sortie, the F-16s struck an insurgent safe house near Husaybah to support marines in Operation River Gate. In another, the Vipers struck a building near al Karabilah.
A yearslong effort to find an affordable way to turn cargo planes into strike platforms is now an official program with anticipated fielding in 2027.