An F-15E Strike Eagle takes off for a combat flight during Operation Epic Fury, on March 16, 2026. A search-and-rescue operation was underway Friday afternoon for two crew members of a U.S. F-15 reportedly shot down in Iran, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the incident. (CENTCOM)
A search and rescue effort was underway on Friday afternoon to locate two crew members of a U.S. fighter jet that was shot down in Iran, Axios reported, citing a source familiar with the incident.
Iranian state media on Friday circulated photos and videos of debris from what appeared to be an F-15 fighter jet, including an ejection seat, claiming it had been shot down. Videos also appeared to show a C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft and two UH-60 Black Hawks that Iranian media claimed were part of the search effort.
The Associated Press reported that Iranian state media was urging residents to hand over any “enemy pilot” to police and promised a reward for anyone who did.
Since the war began, Iran has made at least six false claims about shooting down U.S. aircraft, all of which American officials have denied.
U.S. Central Command did not respond to a request for comment from Stars and Stripes.
This story will be updated.