US Special Forces Enter Iran to Search for Missing Aircrew After Jet Downed

The report claims that the forces entered Iranian territory late Friday night local time, following escalating tensions between the two countries.

Earlier Friday, Iran claimed it had shot down a US F-15 Eagle fighter jet. The aircraft was carrying two crew members, one of whom was rescued in a high-risk operation.

During the rescue mission, Iranian police reportedly opened fire on a US helicopter involved in the operation. The tail section of the helicopter caught fire and smoke was seen billowing from it, though it ultimately managed to land safely.

While US special forces are intensifying efforts to recover the missing crew member, Iranian militia groups are also conducting counter-operations to capture the individual. As of the time of reporting, the missing person remains unaccounted for.

Iranian state television has announced a reward of $66,000 for anyone who captures the US pilot, dead or alive.

In addition to the F-15, Iranian forces also claimed to have downed a US A-10 Thunderbolt II, commonly known as the “Warthog.” According to Iranian claims, the aircraft crashed into the Persian Gulf near the Strait of Hormuz. The A-10 is typically used for close air support missions.