American F-15 fighter jet downed over Iran amid ongoing military conflict

On April 3, 2026, an American F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jet was downed over Iranian territory, marking the first such loss since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran on February 28. U.S. officials confirmed that one of the two crew members was rescued by American special forces, while search operations for the second crew member remain ongoing. Iranian state media and officials claimed credit for the downing, citing air defense systems, and local authorities in the Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province offered rewards for the capture of the pilots. Reports from U.S. sources also mentioned the potential downing of a second aircraft, an A-10 Warthog, which allegedly crashed in Kuwait, though details on secondary aircraft remain conflicting. Iranian media also alleged the downing of a search-and-rescue helicopter, which has not been officially confirmed by the U.S. side. President Donald Trump stated he was briefed on the situation but did not comment on potential retaliation. Israel reportedly delayed military operations to assist in the U.S. search-and-rescue efforts.