Iran likely used Russian missiles to shoot down an American fighter jet, which prompted a major search for its crew behind enemy lines, it has been claimed. Intelligence sources believe the F-15E was downed over southern Iran using Russia's K333 Verba Man Portable air defense systems (MANPADs).
The fighter jet, believed to be from RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, was struck on Friday. Two crew members were on board the warplane and ejected — the pilot was brought to safety the same day in an earlier operation, but the weapons officer was not rescued until Sunday after what Donald Trump described as “one of the most daring search-and-rescue operations in US history”. Iranian officials said the aircraft was shot down by its air defense system.
Intelligence analysts told The Sun it was likely the Verba launchers.
Iran reportedly quietly made a deal worth £450 million with Moscow to buy 500 of the launchers, as well as 2,500 9M336 missiles, while the US amassed forces in the Middle East prior to the outbreak of the war.
The weapon is used to take out aircraft and drones flying at altitudes of up to 5 kilometers. The weapons system officer on board the downed F-15E has not been named but is a colonel.
Mr Trump said he was “behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour”.
Iran offered a reward, reportedly worth £45,000, for his capture.
The US President said on Truth Social that the airman was “SAFE and SOUND!” After being rescued by special operations forces, although he later said the officer had been “seriously wounded”.
Mr Trump said dozens of aircraft took part in the rescue operation, which was completed without any American casualties.
US officials said two transport planes were destroyed to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands after they got stuck in the ground at an abandoned airfield.
He said: “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F*****' Strait, you crazy b*****ds, or you'll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH!”
Iran's de facto closure of the narrow waterway has sent global oil and gas prices skyrocketing.