Kuwait’s Ministry of Defense announced that several U.S. warplanes crashed on March 2, 2026, with all crew members surviving and in stable condition. The ministry’s military spokesperson stated, “Several U.S. warplanes crashed this morning, and all crew members survived,” without disclosing the exact number of aircraft or precise location.
Authorities initiated immediate search and rescue operations, evacuating crews to hospitals for examination and treatment. Direct coordination with U.S. forces is ongoing to investigate circumstances, including joint technical procedures. Kuwaiti officials continue probing the cause.
U.S. sources describe the event as a friendly fire incident, with the Pentagon confirming Kuwaiti air defense systems accidentally shot down three F-15E jets. Video footage shows planes falling from the sky on fire. Pilots ejected safely, reporting no serious injuries.
The crashes occur amid heightened U.S. military operations against Iran. U.S. Central Command reported three service members killed and five injured in related actions. President Trump stated the U.S. will “avenge the deaths of 3 American service members killed in the conflict with Iran.” Secretary of War Pete Hegseth indicated operations will persist as needed for U.S. prevalence, amid congressional debates on legality without prior vote.
Live reports confirm pilots ejected with no military personnel injured, as investigations proceed.