Story perspectives

Iran Missile Downs U.S. F-15E, Crew Ejects in Rescue

By Drooid · Sep 14, 2026, 2:46 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Air Force F-15E was shot down over Iran after an Iranian missile hit it, forcing the crew to eject.
The rescue mobilized 90 troops, hundreds of aircraft and thousands of personnel, ranking among the largest U.S. combat rescue operations.
Bravo’s parachute was damaged, causing a 70-100 mph free-fall and landing with a broken back and other injuries.
About 90 U.S. service members entered Iran, marking the first U.S. ground presence there in 46 years.
Two rescue aircraft and several Little Bird helicopters stuck in desert sand were destroyed to deny Iranian capture.

History

Historical Context

Operation Eagle Claw, the April 24 1980 rescue attempt ordered by President Jimmy Carter, ended when a helicopter collided with a C-130, killing eight U.S. service members and prompting the creation of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. The 2026 downed F-15E and rescue of U.S. personnel marks the first U.S. ground incursion into Iran since that 1980 failure, shaping current joint-force planning.

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Story summary

U.S. Air Force F-15E was shot down over Iran after an Iranian missile hit it, forcing the crew to eject.
The rescue mobilized 90 troops, hundreds of aircraft and thousands of personnel, ranking among the largest U.S. combat rescue operations.
Bravo’s parachute was damaged, causing a 70-100 mph free-fall and landing with a broken back and other injuries.
About 90 U.S. service members entered Iran, marking the first U.S. ground presence there in 46 years.
Two rescue aircraft and several Little Bird helicopters stuck in desert sand were destroyed to deny Iranian capture.

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