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A-10 Warthog Struck in Iran Rescue of Downed F-15E

4/8/2026

29 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthog was struck by Iranian fire during a rescue for a downed F-15E Strike Eagle in Iran.
The F-15E Strike Eagle was downed by a heat-seeking missile, making it the first U.S. aircraft lost to enemy fire in the conflict.
One pilot was rescued after seven hours.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the rescue involved 155 aircraft, noting risks including injuries to rescue crews.

History

Historical Context

The A-10 Warthog, designed for close air support, first entered service in 1977 and proved vital during conflicts like the Gulf War in 1991, where it flew 8,100 sorties. Recent incidents, such as an A-10 being struck while rescuing a downed pilot, echo past challenges, underscoring the aircraft's ongoing role in U.S. military strategy and its vulnerability in modern combat environments.

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Story summary

U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthog was struck by Iranian fire during a rescue for a downed F-15E Strike Eagle in Iran.
The F-15E Strike Eagle was downed by a heat-seeking missile, making it the first U.S. aircraft lost to enemy fire in the conflict.
One pilot was rescued after seven hours.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the rescue involved 155 aircraft, noting risks including injuries to rescue crews.

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