We got him: Donald Trump announces rescue of missing pilot of F-15 from Iran
US President Donald Trump confirmed the news, saying that the crew member from the downed F-15E Strike Eagle is now “safe and sound”.
PTC News Desk: A second US pilot who was shot down over Iran has been rescued and is now safely out of the country, a senior official said. This rescue mission was one of the most difficult operations carried out by US forces in enemy territory in many years.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the news, saying that the crew member from the downed F-15E Strike Eagle is now “safe and sound”.
Iranian officials had earlier claimed that their air defence systems shot down the jet on Friday, marking the first such incident in the ongoing conflict. After the crash, both US and Iranian forces searched for the two crew members — the US trying to rescue them, and Iran trying to capture them.
"My fellow Americans, over the past several hours, the United States Military pulled off one of the most daring Search and Rescue Operations in US History, for one of our incredible Crew Member Officers, who also happens to be a highly respected Colonel," he wrote.
"This brave Warrior was behind enemy lines in the treacherous mountains of Iran, being hunted down by our enemies, who were getting closer and closer by the hour," Trump wrote.
One pilot was rescued quickly, but the second crew member had to hide and avoid capture in hostile conditions for two days. Iran had even announced a reward of $60,000 for anyone who captured him alive.
According to US officials, the missing airman was finally located overnight after managing to evade Iranian forces. The situation was urgent because Iranian authorities were believed to know his possible location.
Trump said the Pentagon closely tracked the officer around the clock and carefully planned the rescue. He added that multiple aircraft, equipped with powerful weapons, were sent to safely bring him back.