Washington – US special forces have rescued a weapons officer from an F-15E fighter jet shot down over Iran, following a high-risk commando operation deep in enemy territory.
President Donald Trump announced the success on Truth Social, posting "WE GOT HIM" in all caps. The officer, who was injured during the incident, is now safe and expected to recover, according to Trump.
The rescue marked the second crew member saved from the Friday shootdown, after the pilot was earlier extracted by military helicopters. For 36 hours, the weapons officer evaded Iranian pursuers using SERE training, hiding in mountain terrain including a 2100-meter ridge and sending a distress signal.
Approximately 100 elite troops, led by SEAL Team Six with support from Delta Force and Army Rangers, executed the mission. Dozens of fighter jets, MQ-9 Reaper drones, tankers, and helicopters provided cover, forming a protective ring and striking Iranian convoys and forces approaching the site. Intense firefights erupted as commandos closed in, with Al Jazeera citing a US official on the "heavy firefight."
Trump noted the officer was "never really alone," with his position monitored around the clock in the mountains. Iran offered a $60,000 bounty, and Revolutionary Guards reported airstrikes in the area. The operation is described as one of the US military’s most daring search-and-rescue efforts.