Six American airmen were rescued in stable condition after Kuwaiti defenses mistakenly downed three U.S. F-15E aircraft amid active hostilities linked to Operation Epic Fury.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Three United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles were destroyed late Sunday night in a friendly fire incident over Kuwait during combat operations connected to Operation Epic Fury, according to a statement released by United States Central Command.
CENTCOM said the aircraft went down at 11:03 p.m. Eastern time on March 1 while conducting missions in support of the operation. The engagement unfolded during what the command described as active combat conditions involving Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones.
“At 11:03 p.m. ET, March 1, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles flying in support of Operation Epic Fury went down over Kuwait due to an apparent friendly fire incident,” CENTCOM stated. “During active combat—that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones — the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses.”
Defense officials confirmed that all six aircrew members ejected from the aircraft and were safely recovered.
“All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition,” the statement continued. “Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation. The cause of the incident is under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.”
The F-15E Strike Eagle, built by Boeing and in operational service since 1989, is a dual-role fighter-bomber designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. According to a United States Air Force fact sheet, the aircraft can exceed speeds of Mach 2.5 and is equipped with a 20mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon. Its weapons systems include AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles and a broad array of air-to-surface munitions used across the U.S. military.
The incident comes as the Middle East remains on heightened alert following U.S. strikes launched Friday night under Operation Epic Fury. The operation resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, and the loss of three American service members in action.
CENTCOM said the friendly fire incident remains under investigation and that further details will be released as they become available.