US Pilot Downed: Iran Search & Rescue Race Begins

Experts say the search for a missing U.S. fighter jet crew member is extremely time-sensitive, as Iran actively seeks to locate the same personnel as American combat search and rescue teams.

Search for Missing Pilot Intensifies

“It’s the most dangerous military mission that I know of,” says James Jeffrey, a military strategist and former special representative for Syria and special envoy to the international military intervention against ISIL.

Such missions frequently involve helicopters, supported by refueling aircraft and other military planes for strikes and area patrol. Verified video from Iran on Friday appears to show a mission underway over Khuzestan province.

“These are Air Force special operations people who are trained almost to the level of Delta Force and Navy SEAL Team Six, but they also have medical capabilities,” Jeffrey said. “They will not give up until they can find a pilot if they think there’s any chance.”

Pilots and crew of downed aircraft receive extensive training for such scenarios. Their primary focus is survival and avoiding capture, according to Jennifer Kavanagh, a senior fellow and director of military analysis at Defense Priorities.

“And so they’re trained to – assuming that they’re physically capable, and not so injured that they can’t move – to try to get away from the ejection site as quickly as possible, and to conceal themselves so that they are safe,” Kavanagh said.

Personnel are also trained in survival techniques, enabling them to endure without food or water and utilize local resources for as long as possible, Kavanagh added.