The U.S. has lost at least nine aircraft in the ongoing conflict, according to image analysis, official statements, and briefings to U.S. media.
Aircraft Losses in April
On April 5, CBS News reported that two transport planes sent to assist in the rescue mission of a downed F-15E fighter jet were unable to take off from a remote base in Iran. The planes were reportedly destroyed to prevent them from falling into enemy hands. Verified photos showed smouldering aircraft wreckage in central Iran, and BBC Verify is analyzing the debris to identify the aircraft type.
On April 3, a fighter jet was shot down over central Iran. Debris from the downed aircraft was identified by an expert as belonging to a U.S. F-15E Strike Eagle. Also on April 3, the New York Times reported that an A-10 Warthog aircraft crashed in the Gulf, and its pilot was rescued after ejecting.
Earlier Losses in March
Images verified on March 29 showed an E-3 Sentry command and control aircraft split in two at Prince Sultan air base in Saudi Arabia, following reports of an Iranian attack.
On March 12, six crew members died when a U.S. KC-135 refuelling aircraft went down in western Iraq, according to U.S. Central Command (Centcom). The circumstances are under investigation, but Centcom ruled out hostile and friendly fire.
On March 2, three U.S. F-15E jets were downed over Kuwait in what Centcom described as “an apparent friendly fire incident.” All six crew members ejected safely. BBC Verify confirmed video showing one F-15 spinning towards the ground west of Kuwait City and footage of a crew member next to a used parachute.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
