Tomahawks spearheaded US strike on Iran — why presidents reach for this missile first

The U.S. launched Tomahawk cruise missiles against Iranian targets in a pre-dawn strike, using the Navy's long-range weapon that costs $1.4 million per missile.

Amanda covers the intersection of business and politics for Fox News Digital.

The Tomahawk has become a go-to option for limited military action because it offers precision and flexibility while keeping the U.S. footprint small. The missiles can hit fixed targets with high accuracy, reducing the risk of broader escalation. Presidents of both parties have used Tomahawks in the opening hours of military operations, from strikes in Iraq in the 1990s to more recent operations in Syria and elsewhere. 

Defense officials and military analysts say the weapon’s long range, reliability and relatively low risk to American personnel make it an attractive first strike option when the White House wants to send a message quickly but stop short of a wider war.