Iran Claims to Down US F-35 Fighter Jet

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed Friday that it shot down a second U.S. F-35 fighter jet over central Iran, according to reports from multiple news outlets. The IRGC alleges the jet was “completely destroyed” upon impact, and the pilot’s survival is considered “unlikely.”

This claim follows an earlier incident on March 2nd, where U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the downing of three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles over Kuwait due to what was described as a friendly fire incident during Operation Epic Fury. CENTCOM stated at the time that the F-15s were “mistakenly” shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses amidst active combat, including attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones.

As of Friday, however, there has been no confirmation from U.S. Central Command regarding the alleged downing of the F-35. Reuters reported that the claim originated from Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency, citing a spokesperson from Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters.

Escalating Tensions Amidst Conflict

The alleged downing of the F-35 comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its sixth week, according to reports. Simultaneously, Iran launched missiles towards Israel on Friday morning, which Israel’s military stated it was intercepting. Israel’s military confirmed identifying the missiles and activating its defensive systems.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced via broadcaster IRIB that it had targeted areas of Tel Aviv and the port city of Eilat with long-range missiles. This escalation follows a period of heightened tensions in the region.

Discrepancies in Reported Wreckage

JFeed.com reported that analysts examining photos purportedly showing the wreckage have pointed out inconsistencies. They suggest the wreckage appears to be from a U.S. F-15E Strike Eagle, based on the metal construction, paint scheme, and “EUROPE” markings, rather than an F-35, which utilizes more composite materials and has a distinct wreckage profile.

This discrepancy raises questions about the veracity of the IRGC’s claim and the identification of the downed aircraft.

CENTCOM Assessment of Operation Epic Fury

In a statement released on March 31st, CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper stated that the military is making “undeniable progress” in Operation Epic Fury. Cooper claimed, “Now in our 5th week of the campaign, it is my operational assessment that we are making undeniable progress. We don’t see their navy sailing. We don’t see their aircraft flying, and their air and missile defense systems have largely been destroyed.”

However, the latest claims from Iran regarding the downing of a second U.S. Fighter jet suggest a continuing and potentially escalating conflict.

Trump’s Response

Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly threatened to destroy Iranian power plants in response to the reports of the downed F-35, according to CNBC.