A U.S. fighter jet was shot down over Iran on Friday, triggering a large-scale search and rescue operation as officials work to recover both crew members.
U.S. officials confirmed that an aircraft had been downed and that recovery efforts were underway, following earlier claims from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that it had successfully targeted the jet.
Reports indicate that at least one of the two pilots aboard the F-15 has already been rescued, while efforts continue to locate the second crew member. The aircraft involved, an F-15E, is a two-seat fighter designed for strike missions and capable of carrying air-to-surface weapons.
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, according to White House officials, as military assets are mobilized to support the ongoing recovery operation.
Search and rescue forces have reportedly been expanded in the region, with significant resources deployed to locate the missing pilot. The situation remains fluid as officials continue to assess conditions on the ground.
Iranian state media has claimed responsibility for the incident and circulated images said to show debris from the downed aircraft, though independent verification of those materials remains limited.
The United States Central Command has previously pushed back on similar claims from Iran, noting a pattern of false reports regarding downed U.S. aircraft. As of now, officials have not publicly addressed this latest incident in detail.
If confirmed, the shootdown would mark a significant escalation in the conflict, potentially representing the first successful strike against a U.S. fighter jet by Iranian forces since the launch of recent military operations in the region.
Meanwhile, Iranian broadcasts have reportedly encouraged civilians to assist in locating the pilots, offering incentives for information, adding urgency and complexity to the ongoing recovery mission.
The post One U.S. Pilot Rescued After F-15 Downed Over Iran As Search Continues For Second Crew Member appeared first on Real News Now.
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