Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
James C. Reynolds

How a pilot was rescued from deep within the Iranian mountains

  • An F-15E Strike Eagle jet was shot down by Iranian defenses on Friday, with Iran's Revolutionary Guards claiming responsibility for the strike.
  • The pilot safely ejected and was rescued by two military helicopters, but a weapons-system officer remained stranded behind enemy lines in treacherous Iranian mountains.
  • US special forces launched a daring rescue mission, employing bombs, covering fire, and MQ-9 Reaper drones to protect the injured airman from approaching Iranian troops.
  • The CIA reportedly played a crucial role by locating the airman and conducting a deception campaign to mislead Iranian forces during the operation.
  • Trump announced on Sunday that both airmen were safely recovered, stating that no American casualties occurred despite fierce resistance and Iranian claims of downing multiple US aircraft.

IN FULL

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.