In a dramatic and high-risk mission, U.S. special forces have successfully rescued the second crew member of an F-15 fighter jet that was shot down over Iran, according to multiple U.S. officials cited by Axios. The operation, carried out deep inside Iranian territory, marks one of the most tense and complex military rescue efforts in recent times.
High-Stakes Rescue Inside Iran
The fighter jet, identified as an F-15, went down on Friday in southwest Iran, triggering an urgent search-and-rescue mission. Both crew members — the pilot and the weapons systems officer — managed to eject safely and establish communication shortly after the incident.
The first crew member was rescued within hours. However, the second remained stranded for over 24 hours, sparking a race against time as Iran’s powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) mobilized to locate the downed officer.
Intense Firefight and Air Cover
According to U.S. officials, Saturday’s rescue mission involved a specialized commando unit supported by heavy air cover. As American forces moved in, they reportedly unleashed intense firepower to secure the extraction zone and prevent Iranian forces from closing in.
U.S. Air Force jets also conducted targeted strikes to block IRGC units advancing toward the area, ensuring the success of the operation. Despite the risks, all U.S. personnel involved in the mission were safely extracted from Iranian territory.
Helicopter Hit During First Rescue
The situation escalated further during the initial rescue attempt. Iranian forces reportedly struck a U.S. Black Hawk helicopter, injuring several crew members. Despite the damage, the aircraft managed to stay airborne and complete its mission — underscoring the intensity of the confrontation.
Trump Monitors Operation in Real Time
Donald Trump and senior officials closely monitored the rescue efforts from the White House Situation Room. The successful extraction of both crew members is being seen as a critical operational victory under extremely hostile conditions.