Iran announced on Saturday that a newly deployed air defence system played a key role in shooting down US aircraft, as clashes with American and Israeli forces continue. The claim came soon after the United States confirmed that the second crew member of a downed F-15E fighter jet had been successfully rescued.

Iran Says Another US Aircraft Was Hit

According to Iran, another US aircraft involved in the rescue mission was also shot down. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the aircraft was targeted while it was searching for the missing crew member in southern Isfahan.

The development was reported by the Fars News Agency. Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters also confirmed the claim through state media, as cited by Reuters. Officials said the new system had already brought down two US aircraft and would help Iran “definitely achieve full control” over its airspace.

Possible Use of Third Khordad Missile System

Reports suggest that Iran may have used the Third Khordad missile system, a mobile medium-range air defence system, to target the aircraft. According to The New York Times, this system could have been involved in the strike. Meanwhile, experts quoted by ABC News said Iran may also have used passive infrared detection systems. These systems can track aircraft without using radar signals, making them harder to detect.

F-15E Crash Details

The F-15E fighter jet, which costs around $31 million, is believed to have crashed in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province in southwestern Iran, close to the Iraqi border. Both crew members managed to eject safely. One was rescued on Friday, while the second was recovered on Sunday after an extensive search operation.

A-10 Aircraft Hit During Rescue Mission

During a follow-up rescue operation, an A-10 Thunderbolt II, also known as the “Warthog”, was also hit. The aircraft later crashed after entering Kuwaiti airspace. However, the pilot was able to eject safely and survived the incident.

First Confirmed US Aircraft Losses in Iran

These incidents mark the first confirmed losses of US aircraft inside Iran since the conflict began on February 28. So far, the United States has carried out strikes on more than 12,300 targets during the war. According to US officials, these operations have significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities, reducing its missile and drone strength by more than 90 percent.

Conflict Intensifies

The latest developments highlight the growing intensity of the conflict, with both sides reporting major military actions. Iran’s claims about its air defence success signal a possible shift in control over its airspace, while the US continues to maintain pressure through large-scale strikes.