U.S. forces have rescued the second crew member from an F-15E Strike Eagle shot down over southwestern Iran during combat operations on April 2. The weapons systems officer, a colonel who sustained injuries, evaded capture in the mountainous terrain for over 24 hours before extraction.
The aircraft, carrying a pilot and weapons systems officer, was downed by Iranian forces, according to U.S. officials. The pilot was recovered shortly after ejecting, while the second airman remained missing, prompting an intense search-and-rescue effort deep in hostile territory.
Special operations forces, supported by dozens of aircraft, helicopters, and air cover, executed the rescue on April 4. CIA intelligence provided the airman’s exact location, enabling strikes on Iranian troops and roads to secure the site. No American fatalities occurred during the operations.
President Donald Trump confirmed the rescue on Truth Social, stating the crew member sustained injuries but will be fine. U.S. Central Command noted ongoing strikes against Iran following the recoveries.