US-Iran War — 2026-04-03

US F-15E Strike Eagle Shot Down Over Iran in First Air-to-Air Loss of the War

An F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz on April 3, marking the first US aircraft downed by enemy fire since the war began February 28. Both crew members ejected; US special operations forces rescued one on Iranian territory while the second remains missing. Iran has mobilized civilians to search for the second crew member, offering a reward. The IRGC claimed responsibility, and Iranian state media circulated photos of wreckage including an ejection seat.

Analysis
First US combat aircraft loss to enemy fire since the war began Day 1. The shootdown over Qeshm Island, at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz, suggests Iran retains viable air defense capability in the very corridor the US needs to control for any Hormuz reopening. The crew rescue on Iranian soil required special operations forces operating deep inside hostile territory, escalating operational risk. Iran's public mobilization of civilians to search for the second crew member is designed to maximize propaganda value.

4 sources

U.S. F-15 shot down by Iran, rescue mission underway - The Hill
U.S. F-15 fighter jet shot down over Iran, search and rescue mission underway, officials say - NBC News
Iranian Media Posts Debris From USAF F-15E Claimed to Have Been Downed Earlier Today - The Aviationist
US fighter jet shot down in Iran, reports say - Stars and Stripes