Original Source
Second F-15 Crew Member Rescued in Iran by U.S. Special Forces
Second F-15 Crew Member Rescued from Iran
U.S. special forces have successfully rescued the second crew member of an F-15 fighter jet that was shot down over Iran, according to U.S. officials. The weapons system officer was wounded after ejecting on Friday but evaded capture in the mountains for over a day. This operation completes the rescue of both crew members from the downed aircraft, both extracted through special forces operations within Iranian territory.
Details of the Rescue Operation and Background
According to U.S. officials, the rescue operation for the second crew member was conducted by a specialized commando unit with extensive air cover, involving a significant display of heavy fire from U.S. forces. Prior to locating the officer, the CIA launched a deception campaign within Iran, spreading false information that U.S. forces had already found him and were attempting a ground exfiltration. The CIA then used "unique capabilities" to pinpoint his precise location. Upon receiving this information, President Donald Trump ordered an immediate rescue mission. Meanwhile, Iranian forces attempted to prevent the rescue, but U.S. Air Force jets conducted strikes against them to block their access to the area. President Trump later confirmed the rescue on Truth Social, describing it as "one of the most daring search and rescue operations in U.S. history."
*Source: Axios (2026-04-05)*
