Not really

> In other words, there are other relevant variables than just combat experience...?

Yes? Nobody argued otherwise.

> "We're actively learning lessons in Ukraine" → Yet somehow our Patriot batteries were taken offline by Shaheds lmao.

Learning a lesson second-hand is different than learning a lesson first-hand. The fact that Iran was able to perhaps attack some equipment or position shows us where we are weak and gives us, albeit unfortunate, an opportunity to learn a lesson and improve.

> But so are our enemies. And what cost to each party? Iran learns lessons "for free" while it defends itself.

No Iran doesn't learn lessons for free unless everyone else is too. Of course enemies are going to learn and adapt too, but we're smarter, stronger, our civilization is a lot better at war, have more money, and better equipment and so when we learn lessons they're more effective and important.

> China learns lessons for free because it's uninvolved. The US learns lessons because it's risking lives and equipment for a war with, so far, deeply negative strategic value.

Again you're just confusing your mistaken view of the Iran war here as I mentioned in my OP.

Happy to answer any questions you have though