On Mar. 2, three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait air defenses during Operation Epic Fury, the U.S. military campaign against Iran, in what is described as an “apparent” friendly-fire incident during the conflict.
“All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed in a statement. “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 incident took place at 7:03 A.M. local time on Mar. 2 or 11:03 A.M. E.T on March 1, according to CENTCOM.
"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," CENTCOM stated.
CENTCOM also confirmed that Kuwait has acknowledged the occurrence, affirming that the U.S. military will investigate the cause.
According to Air and Space Forces Magazine, “The incident is the first reported loss of aircraft for the U.S. since Epic Fury began Feb. 28,” which commenced with joint kinetic military airstrikes alongside Israel on Iran. It immediately led to Tehran’s retaliation by deploying drones and missiles at public spaces and military bases along the Middle East.
