US fighters and bombers flew over the Persian Gulf in a warning to Iran

A US bomber task force deployed to the Middle East conducted its first deterrence patrol on Sunday, US Air Forces Central Command revealed.Responding to the threat of an Iranian attack on US interests, the US has deployed a carrier strike group, a bomber task force, an amphibious assault vessel, and an air-and-missile defense battery to the Middle East.The B-52 bombers that flew on Sunday were accompanied by F-35A and F-15C fighters.Visit INSIDER's homepage for more stories.US fighters and bombers conducted a deterrence patrol over the Persian Gulf on Sunday as a warning to Iran, which the US has accused of plotting attacks on US interests in the region.During the mission, US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress heavy, long-range bombers were accompanied by F-15C Eagles and F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters. The bombers and escorts were supported by a KC-135 Stratotanker providing aerial refueling.US Central Command explained to Business Insider that the flight was intended to send a message to Iran and others that the US military is ready to defend its interests.