U.S. fighter jet shot down over Iran; frantic search and rescue underway

By Sarah Roderick-Fitch
The Center Square

A U.S. fighter jet has been shot down over southern Iran, as a search and rescue mission is underway, according to multiple reports.

Reports indicate the downed aircraft is an F-15 fighter jet with two crew members onboard. Media reports indicate that one of the pilots has been rescued.

Multiple video reports from the region show low-flying aircraft, including helicopters, engaged in a search-and-rescue operation for the second crew member. However, neither the U.S. Central Command nor the Department of War has officially confirmed the incident.

President Donald Trump has reportedly been briefed on the matter and is monitoring the situation, as Iranian media is urging a manhunt for the downed pilots.

If true, the incident would mark the first jet to be shot down by enemy fire since the conflict with Iran began over a month ago. Since Operation Epic Fury began, 13 U.S. service members have been killed in relation to the military operations, with more than 500 wounded. A majority of the wounded have returned to active duty.

Two other aircraft involved in the rescue operations have reportedly been hit, though no injuries have been reported.

This is a developing story.