Aviation Safety Report
F-15E losses Iran operation
On 2 March 2026, a United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, operated by 335FS/4FW "SJ" (Seymour Johnson), was presumably mistakenly shot down as a result of friendly fire. Both the pilot and WSO were able to eject from the aircraft, and were retrieved by locals, before being transferred to a nearby hospital.
During active combat—that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones — the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses.
The crash was officially confirmed by the Kuwait Armed Forces in a statement:
"The spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense stated that several U.S. military aircraft crashed this morning, confirming the complete safety of their crews."
U.S. Central Command Press Release
Three U.S. F-15s Involved in Friendly Fire Incident in Kuwait; Pilots Safe
USCENTCOM
TAMPA, Fla. – At 11:03 p.m. ET, March 1, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles flying in support of Operation Epic Fury went down over Kuwait due to an apparent friendly fire incident.
During active combat—that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones — the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses.
All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation.
The cause of the incident is under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Sources:
https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/567508
https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/567520
https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/567519
https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/567516