Michael Bay to Direct Film on Operation Epic Fury Rescue

In early April 2026, a U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down in Iran’s Zagros Mountains. A rescue operation recovered the pilot and the weapons-systems officer, a mission described as the largest U.S. rescue in history and involving dozens of aircraft.

Variety Magazine

President Donald Trump authorized Operation Epic Fury in February 2026 as part of a U.S. military response to Iran. The April rescue drew global attention and prompted a social-media announcement by the President.

Variety Magazine

Universal Pictures will produce an untitled film directed by Michael Bay, who will also co-produce with Erwin Stoff and Scott Gardenhour. The screenplay adapts Mitchell Zuckoff’s forthcoming HarperCollins book (2027). Bay’s three-decade partnership with the U.S. military and his prior $10 billion global box-office record are highlighted in promotional material.

Deadline Hollywood

Feb 2026 – Operation Epic Fury approved;

The Wrap

Apr 2026 – F-15E downed and rescue completed;

Variety Magazine

May 2026 – Bay’s film announced;

Michael Bay Officially Adapting His First War Movie In 10 Years

2027 – Zuckoff’s book released.

The Wrap

The President’s Truth Social post framed the rescue as a daring operation overseen by senior defense officials. Bay, speaking to Deadline, highlighted his long-standing collaboration with the military and said the film will honor the service members involved.

Variety Magazine

Analysts note that the Trump-approved operation is politically polarizing and that the film could be perceived as glorifying the conflict. Bay’s earlier war movies, *Pearl Harbor* (2001) and *13 Hours* (2016), attracted criticism for historical liberties, suggesting similar scrutiny may arise for the upcoming project.

Michael Bay Officially Adapting His First War Movie In 10 Years

• “I’ve had an amazing partnership over my 30-year career working with the Department of War and amazing U.S. military members. In my film 13 Hours, no rescue force answered the call for help. This film is about everyone who answered the call in one of the most complex, intricate and high-stakes operations in recent history. It celebrates the true heroism and unwavering dedication of our service members.” — Michael Bay, interview with Deadline

Deadline Hollywood

HarperCollins will publish Zuckoff’s book in 2027. Universal, Bay, Stoff and Gardenhour will produce the untitled film; production dates remain undisclosed. Future announcements are expected on casting and a potential release window.

The Wrap