dailyloe.com – Iranian state media claims an American F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday, with its pilot now in Iranian custody. The report, citing open-source intelligence, states the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) destroyed the aircraft. The pilot reportedly ejected and landed inside Iranian territory.
The Tasnim News Agency reported the incident occurred on Friday morning. It suggested US forces attempted a combat search and rescue operation to extract the pilot. Some sources indicate the pilot was likely captured by Iranian forces during this attempt.
The IRGC also claimed to have destroyed a second aircraft, identified as an F-35, using a new advanced defense system. It stated the intruding fighter jet belonged to the Lakenheath squadron. The jet was reportedly completely destroyed and crashed in central Iran.
These claims originate solely from Iranian state-affiliated media outlets. The United States military has not officially confirmed the loss of any aircraft or personnel. Such incidents carry high risk of escalating existing regional tensions.
Verification of these reports remains difficult due to the conflicting sources. The F-15E is a dual-role fighter designed for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Its potential loss would represent a significant military and diplomatic event.[]
Source: India Today
