A United States Air Force Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II sustained damage from Iranian fire on Friday, the second U.S. military aircraft incident in the region within hours. U.S. defense officials stated the aircraft was struck while operating in or near Iranian airspace, but the pilot safely returned after the rescue.
The first event involved an F-15E Strike Eagle shot down over southwestern Iran, according to Iranian state media and U.S. officials. One crew member was rescued during a U.S. search operation involving Black Hawk helicopters and a C-130, while the second remains missing. Iranian media reported hitting a rescue helicopter with a projectile and aired footage of wreckage.
These mark the first U.S. aircraft losses in the conflict, nearly five weeks after it began. Conflicting reports emerged on aircraft types, with Iran claiming an F-15E and some mentions of F-35. The Pentagon notified Congress of an aircraft shot down in the Middle East but provided no further details. President Trump was briefed on the incidents.