Second U.S. Aircraft Down Near Hormuz as Search Continues for Missing F-15E Crew Member

Rescue helicopters take damage during recovery mission as one American airman remains unaccounted for amid escalating conflict.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

A second U.S. military aircraft has gone down near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Fox News report,  while search efforts continue for a missing crew member from a separate incident involving a downed F-15E fighter jet, according to sources briefed on intelligence developments.

The additional aircraft, identified as an A-10 Warthog, reportedly went down Friday after coming under enemy fire in the region near the Strait of Hormuz. The exact crash location has not been publicly confirmed. The pilot of the A-10 was safely recovered.

The incident occurred alongside an ongoing recovery operation tied to the loss of an F-15E aircraft earlier the same day. The fighter jet was brought down over Iran, with one crew member successfully rescued after ejecting. The second crew member, identified as the weapons systems officer, remains missing. Officials said it is not yet known whether the individual was able to eject prior to the aircraft’s loss.

Efforts to locate the missing airman have involved combat search-and-rescue operations, during which two U.S. helicopters were struck by enemy fire. Both aircraft sustained damage, and some personnel aboard were reported injured. Despite the damage, the helicopters were able to land safely.

The developments come amid intensifying direct engagements between U.S. forces and Iran. President Donald Trump has been briefed on the situation, including the status of the missing crew member and the broader operational environment.

Israeli forces have reportedly paused strikes in the region while recovery operations are underway and are assisting the United States with intelligence support related to the search.

The incidents underscore the heightened risks facing U.S. personnel operating in contested areas, particularly near strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, where military activity has increased in recent weeks.