Russian fighter jets feature tall landing gear to safely operate from unpaved airstrips. The elevated height protects engine intakes from debris and provides clearance for heavy weapons.

Russian fighter jets feature tall landing gear to safely operate from unpaved airstrips. The elevated height protects engine intakes from debris and provides clearance for heavy weapons.

Why Russian fighter jets sit much higher off the ground compared to US jets

US stealth jets feature seamless radar-absorbing coatings to remain virtually invisible. Russian engineers skip these fragile finishes on the Su-57 to ensure cost-effective ruggedness and speed.

US stealth jets feature seamless radar-absorbing coatings to remain virtually invisible. Russian engineers skip these fragile finishes on the Su-57 to ensure cost-effective ruggedness and speed.

Why Russian fighter jets lack seamless radar-absorbing coatings compared to US jets

Russian jets like the Su-57 use visible rivets to lower manufacturing costs and speed up frontline repairs, prioritising extreme manoeuvrability over absolute radar stealth.

Russian jets like the Su-57 use visible rivets to lower manufacturing costs and speed up frontline repairs, prioritising extreme manoeuvrability over absolute radar stealth.

Why Russian fighter jets leave body rivets exposed compared to US jets

Russian jets use canted nozzles to achieve extreme dogfight agility. US jets like the F-22 rely on pitch-only rectangular nozzles to minimise infrared signatures and maintain absolute radar stealth.

Russian jets use canted nozzles to achieve extreme dogfight agility. US jets like the F-22 rely on pitch-only rectangular nozzles to minimise infrared signatures and maintain absolute radar stealth.

Why Russian fighter jets use 3D thrust vectoring nozzles compared to US jets

US fighter jets use seamless bubble canopies for 360-degree visibility and stealth. Russian jets prioritise reinforced framed cockpits to ensure structural strength and dependable optical clarity.

US fighter jets use seamless bubble canopies for 360-degree visibility and stealth. Russian jets prioritise reinforced framed cockpits to ensure structural strength and dependable optical clarity.

Why Russian fighter jets use heavy framed canopies compared to US jets

Russian fighter jets feature twin nose wheels to support massive 45-tonne weights and land safely on rough dirt airstrips. This differs from land-based US jets that use single wheels for paved runways.

Russian fighter jets feature twin nose wheels to support massive 45-tonne weights and land safely on rough dirt airstrips. This differs from land-based US jets that use single wheels for paved runways.

Why Russian fighter jets use double nose tyres compared to US jets

Russian jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres to operate from rough dirt runways. This design absorbs shocks and stops sinking, while specialised intake grilles block debris.

Russian jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres to operate from rough dirt runways. This design absorbs shocks and stops sinking, while specialised intake grilles block debris.

Why Russian fighter jets use bulky, low-pressure tyres compared to US jets

Russian pilots historically wear blue flight suits for sky camouflage and high-altitude protection. Conversely, US aviators use sage green Nomex suits, prioritising ground concealment and fire safety.

Russian pilots historically wear blue flight suits for sky camouflage and high-altitude protection. Conversely, US aviators use sage green Nomex suits, prioritising ground concealment and fire safety.

Why Russian fighter pilots wear blue flight suits compared to US pilots

Soviet engineers built the MiG-25 using heavy nickel-steel instead of titanium to withstand extreme Mach 3 heat. This choice sacrificed agility but ensured cost-effective mass production, structural durability, and easier maintenance.

Soviet engineers built the MiG-25 using heavy nickel-steel instead of titanium to withstand extreme Mach 3 heat. This choice sacrificed agility but ensured cost-effective mass production, structural durability, and easier maintenance.

Why Russian jets use heavier steel compared to US jets

US jets use frameless bubble canopies for a 360-degree view and reduced radar signatures. Russian jets rely on framed windshields for structural reinforcement and to protect pilots from slipstreams.

US jets use frameless bubble canopies for a 360-degree view and reduced radar signatures. Russian jets rely on framed windshields for structural reinforcement and to protect pilots from slipstreams.

Why US fighter jets use seamless bubble canopies compared to Russian jets

Russian jets use flexible hoses to refuel multiple aircraft simultaneously. US rigid booms pump fuel much faster for heavy bombers but require complex hardware. Probe-and-drogue systems also easily fit onto standard fighter jets.

Russian jets use flexible hoses to refuel multiple aircraft simultaneously. US rigid booms pump fuel much faster for heavy bombers but require complex hardware. Probe-and-drogue systems also easily fit onto standard fighter jets.

Why Russian aircraft use flexible refuelling hoses compared to US refuelling booms

Russian jets use passive IRST domes to track heat without emitting radar. US stealth fighters avoid these reflecting domes, using flush sensors to protect their radar cross-section.

Russian jets use passive IRST domes to track heat without emitting radar. US stealth fighters avoid these reflecting domes, using flush sensors to protect their radar cross-section.

Why Russian fighter jets mount nose camera balls compared to US jets

Russian Su-34 jets use side-by-side seating to share displays, reduce armour weight, and provide space for a relief tube. This helps fight pilot fatigue on 10-hour flights, unlike US tandem jets.

Russian Su-34 jets use side-by-side seating to share displays, reduce armour weight, and provide space for a relief tube. This helps fight pilot fatigue on 10-hour flights, unlike US tandem jets.

Why Russian strike fighters seat pilots side-by-side compared to US jets

The Russian K-36 ejection seat safely extracts pilots at 755 knots using pop-up deflector shields and automated restraints. These deflectors protect the pilot's arms and legs from fatal 600-knot windblast forces during supersonic ejections.

The Russian K-36 ejection seat safely extracts pilots at 755 knots using pop-up deflector shields and automated restraints. These deflectors protect the pilot's arms and legs from fatal 600-knot windblast forces during supersonic ejections.

Why Russian ejection seats pop up arm deflectors compared to US seats

Russian jets use raw, circular nozzles to maximise thrust and agility while saving money. US jets employ flat rectangular nozzles to hide engine heat and scatter radar, ensuring complete stealth.

Russian jets use raw, circular nozzles to maximise thrust and agility while saving money. US jets employ flat rectangular nozzles to hide engine heat and scatter radar, ensuring complete stealth.

Why Russian fighter jets leave exhaust pipes raw compared to US jets

Despite ceasefire efforts no concrete solution seems to be emerging between US and Iran to end the conflict. In fact tensions have escalated once again with the last 48 hours seeing attacks and counter-attacks as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) appears to be unravelling.&nbsp;Amid all this US has taken an unexpected step. The American military withdrew its advanced stealth fighter jets from an Israeli airbase in southern Israel on Friday (July 10).&nbsp;According to Times of Israel, at least 10 F-22 stealth fighters that were deployed at the Israeli Air Force’s Ovda base made a stop at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom on their way back to the US.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-trump-really-order-iran-s-destruction-if-he-is-assassinated-here-s-what-us-law-says-1783766836743">Can Trump really order Iran’s destruction if he is assassinated? Here’s what US law says</a>&nbsp;While the movement signals an end to forward deployment, it is not exactly an indication of a reduction in Washington’s ability to rapidly deploy combat planes to the Middle East.Videos posted on social media showed jets landing at British airbase.&nbsp;The F-22 stealth fighter jet of the US is world’s most advanced air-superiority fighter with unmatched speed, maneuverability and air-to-air combat capabilities.&nbsp;The jets were deployed to Israel ahead of the recent war with Iran.&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;“Locked and loaded”, Trump threatens Iran again</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jul 10) again threaten Iran. He said that any assassination attempts on him would follow US attacks on the Islamic Republic. He claimed that 1,000 missiles were “locked and loaded” and were aimed at Iran should it attempt or succeed in a plan to eliminate him. This comes after reports suggested that Israeli intelligence pointed to an Iranian plot to assassinate Trump.&nbsp;“1000 Missiles are Locked and Loaded and aimed at the Islamic Republic of Iran, with thousands of more to immediately follow, should the Iranian Government act on its threat, pronounced in many corners of the Globe, to assassinate, or attempt to assassinate, the sitting President of the United States of America, in this case, ME!”, Trump wrote onvTruth Social. &nbsp;

The F-22 stealth fighter jet of the US is world’s most advanced air-superiority fighter with unmatched speed, maneuverability and air-to-air combat capabilities.

Despite ceasefire efforts no concrete solution seems to be emerging between US and Iran to end the conflict. In fact tensions have escalated once again with the last 48 hours seeing attacks and counter-attacks as the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) appears to be unravelling. Amid all this US has taken an unexpected step. The American military withdrew its advanced stealth fighter jets from an Israeli airbase in southern Israel on Friday (July 10). According to Times of Israel, at least 10 F-22 stealth fighters that were deployed at the Israeli Air Force’s Ovda base made a stop at RAF Fairford in the United Kingdom on their way back to the US. ALSO READ: Can Trump really order Iran’s destruction if he is assassinated? Here’s what US law says While the movement signals an end to forward deployment, it is not exactly an indication of a reduction in Washington’s ability to rapidly deploy combat planes to the Middle East. Videos posted on social media showed jets landing at British airbase. The F-22 stealth fighter jet of the US is world’s most advanced air-superiority fighter with unmatched speed, maneuverability and air-to-air combat capabilities. The jets were deployed to Israel ahead of the recent war with Iran. “Locked and loaded”, Trump threatens Iran again Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jul 10) again threaten Iran. He said that any assassination attempts on him would follow US attacks on the Islamic Republic. He claimed that 1,000 missiles were “locked and loaded” and were aimed at Iran should it attempt or succeed in a plan to eliminate him. This comes after reports suggested that Israeli intelligence pointed to an Iranian plot to assassinate Trump. “1000 Missiles are Locked and Loaded and aimed at the Islamic Republic of Iran, with thousands of more to immediately follow, should the Iranian Government act on its threat, pronounced in many corners of the Globe, to assassinate, or attempt to assassinate, the sitting President of the United States of America, in this case, ME!”, Trump wrote onvTruth Social.

The F-22 stealth fighter jet of the US is world’s most advanced air-superiority fighter with unmatched speed, maneuverability and air-to-air combat capabilities.

US military withdraws stealth fighter jets from Israeli airbase even as tensions with Iran flare up again

Russian jets space twin engines far apart to generate body lift, ensure direct airflow, and survive missile hits. US jets keep engines close together to reduce drag and increase combat roll rates.

Russian jets space twin engines far apart to generate body lift, ensure direct airflow, and survive missile hits. US jets keep engines close together to reduce drag and increase combat roll rates.

Why Russian fighter jets space engines far apart compared to US jets

Russian jets like the Su-57 use visible body rivets to lower manufacturing costs and speed up frontline repairs. US aircraft hide fasteners under complex coatings to achieve absolute radar stealth.

Russian jets like the Su-57 use visible body rivets to lower manufacturing costs and speed up frontline repairs. US aircraft hide fasteners under complex coatings to achieve absolute radar stealth.

Why Russian fighter jets show visible body rivets compared to US jets

US jets use delicate, smooth radar-absorbent coatings to remain unseen. Russia skips these fragile finishes, opting for rugged airframes built for extreme weather and high-speed manoeuvrability.

US jets use delicate, smooth radar-absorbent coatings to remain unseen. Russia skips these fragile finishes, opting for rugged airframes built for extreme weather and high-speed manoeuvrability.

Why US fighter jets have smoother stealth coatings than Russian jets

Russian fighter jets deploy tail parachutes to land safely on short, icy runways and save wheel brakes. US combat aircraft rely on long runways and powerful carbon disc brakes.

Russian fighter jets deploy tail parachutes to land safely on short, icy runways and save wheel brakes. US combat aircraft rely on long runways and powerful carbon disc brakes.

Why Russian fighter jets use landing parachutes compared to US jets

Russian fighter jets leave black smoke due to incomplete fuel combustion in Soviet-era engines like the Klimov RD-33. While smokeless US fighters use advanced air-blast injectors, Russian designs prioritise rapid acceleration over clean burn.

Russian fighter jets produce visible smoke due to incomplete fuel combustion in older engine designs. Modern US aircraft use advanced fuel injectors to ensure clean, smokeless operations.

Why Russian fighter jets produce more visible smoke than US aircraft

US fighter jets use encrypted data links to turn missiles into nodes on a flying internet. This allows an F-35 to silently guide a USD 1 million missile fired by another jet miles away, creating an inescapable web of aerial lethality.

US fighter jets use encrypted data links to turn missiles into nodes on a flying internet. This allows an F-35 to silently guide a USD 1 million missile fired by another jet miles away, creating an inescapable web of aerial lethality.

Why US fighter jet missiles work like part of a flying internet

Fighter jets use low-bypass turbofans and explosive afterburners to prioritise raw speed over noise reduction. Generating over 150 decibels, their supersonic exhaust violently rips the air apart, producing deafening shockwaves and sonic booms.

Fighter jets use low-bypass turbofans and explosive afterburners to prioritise raw speed over noise reduction. Generating over 150 decibels, their supersonic exhaust violently rips the air apart, producing deafening shockwaves and sonic booms.

Why fighter jets are so loud compared to normal planes

The Russian Su-57 stealth fighter packs a deadly internal arsenal, including the 400-kilometre range Kh-69 stealth cruise missile and a 30mm automatic cannon capable of firing 1,500 rounds per minute.


The Russian Su-57 stealth fighter packs a deadly internal arsenal, including the 400-kilometre range Kh-69 stealth cruise missile and a 30mm automatic cannon capable of firing 1,500 rounds per minute.

‘Ghost jet power’: These are the most deadly weapons the Su-57 fighter jet carries?

The F-15 fighter jet of the United States that was shot down over southwestern Iran last month and led to a dangerous rescue mission to extract a crew member was probably struck by a Chinese-made shoulder-launched missile, said reports in US media, citing three people with knowledge of the matter.The NBC News report further said that in the early days of the conflict, China may have also provided Iran with a long-range early-warning radar that spots stealth aircraft that are meant to evade detection, according to one of the people and a US official privy to the matter.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/22-afghans-killed-36-injured-as-truck-carrying-refugees-returning-from-pakistan-crashes-in-afghanistan-1780160860194">22 Afghans killed, 36 injured as truck carrying refugees returning from Pakistan crashes in Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;US officials are, meanwhile, still investigating the shooting down of the American F-15E Strike Eagle in April, the sources said. It was the first time in decades that a US fighter was downed by enemy fire.The use of Chinese weapons by Iran against the US makes America’s relationship with Beijing difficult at a time when President Donald Trump has sought Beijing’s help in ending the conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The US continues to launch its “defensive” strikes on Iran amid the ongoing negotiations to end the war.The Trump administration announced a ceasefire with Iran ahead of a crucial meeting with President Xi Jinping. Since China is the primary destination of Iran’s oil exports, Beijing said the war must come to an end.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-storey-building-collapses-in-south-delhi-s-mehrauli-area-many-feared-trapped-1780156292174">Five-storey building collapses in South Delhi’s Mehrauli area, many feared trapped</a>&nbsp;When the plane was shot down, Trump said it was struck by a shoulder-launched missile. The missile, which is about 7 feet long and weighs 40 pounds and is also known as “man-portable air defence weapon,” or “Manpad,” provides an inexpensive and yet effective way to take down low-flying aircraft.The two-man crew of the F-15 jet ejected safely from the aircraft over Iran. The pilot was rescued within seven hours, but it took two days to locate and rescue the weapons systems officer, who hid in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains.&nbsp;Trump said in an interview that Xi had assured him that China would not provide military equipment to Iran. “President Xi has promised me that he’s not sending any weapons to Iran. That’s a beautiful promise. I take him at his word. I appreciated it,” Trump told reporters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/locals-hurl-eggs-and-stones-at-abhishek-banerjee-manhandle-him-in-sonarpur-tmc-cries-foul-1780150286900">Locals hurl eggs and stones at Abhishek Banerjee, manhandle him in Sonarpur; TMC cries foul</a>&nbsp;As per US intelligence reports, China was planning to provide new air defence weaponry to Iran, and US officials may have leaked the intelligence to expose China’s plans.&nbsp;It’s not evident if the shoulder-launched missile that possibly brought down the F-15 was delivered to Iran recently or it was shipped years ago.Earlier, the Trump administration accused China of providing Iran access to Chinese satellites to help it target US forces in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dk-shivakumar-elected-clp-leader-to-take-oath-as-karnataka-chief-minister-on-june-3-1780144118342">DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on June 3</a>&nbsp;The US State Department imposed sanctions on three Chinese satellite companies that were providing imagery and data to enable Iran to launch attacks against US forces in the Middle East. China denied the accusation.&nbsp;China sold large quantities of weapons to Iran in the 1980s and 1990s, including ballistic missiles, anti-ship missiles, tanks, artillery and fighter jets.&nbsp;However, Beijing backed away from major weapons sales after a UN arms embargo against Iran in 2006 and instead provided dual-use components and technology to Iran that had both civilian and military uses.Iran then built its own domestic industry to produce weapons for its military.

The use of Chinese weapons by Iran against the US makes America’s relationship with Beijing difficult at a time when President Donald Trump has sought Beijing’s help in ending the war. The US continues to launch its “defensive” strikes on Iran amid the ongoing negotiations to end the war.

The F-15 fighter jet of the United States that was shot down over southwestern Iran last month and led to a dangerous rescue mission to extract a crew member was probably struck by a Chinese-made shoulder-launched missile, said reports in US media, citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The NBC News report further said that in the early days of the conflict, China may have also provided Iran with a long-range early-warning radar that spots stealth aircraft that are meant to evade detection, according to one of the people and a US official privy to the matter. Also Read: 22 Afghans killed, 36 injured as truck carrying refugees returning from Pakistan crashes in Afghanistan US officials are, meanwhile, still investigating the shooting down of the American F-15E Strike Eagle in April, the sources said. It was the first time in decades that a US fighter was downed by enemy fire. The use of Chinese weapons by Iran against the US makes America’s relationship with Beijing difficult at a time when President Donald Trump has sought Beijing’s help in ending the conflict. The US continues to launch its “defensive” strikes on Iran amid the ongoing negotiations to end the war. The Trump administration announced a ceasefire with Iran ahead of a crucial meeting with President Xi Jinping. Since China is the primary destination of Iran’s oil exports, Beijing said the war must come to an end. Also Read: Five-storey building collapses in South Delhi’s Mehrauli area, many feared trapped When the plane was shot down, Trump said it was struck by a shoulder-launched missile. The missile, which is about 7 feet long and weighs 40 pounds and is also known as “man-portable air defence weapon,” or “Manpad,” provides an inexpensive and yet effective way to take down low-flying aircraft. The two-man crew of the F-15 jet ejected safely from the aircraft over Iran. The pilot was rescued within seven hours, but it took two days to locate and rescue the weapons systems officer, who hid in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains. Trump said in an interview that Xi had assured him that China would not provide military equipment to Iran. “President Xi has promised me that he’s not sending any weapons to Iran. That’s a beautiful promise. I take him at his word. I appreciated it,” Trump told reporters. Also Read: Locals hurl eggs and stones at Abhishek Banerjee, manhandle him in Sonarpur; TMC cries foul As per US intelligence reports, China was planning to provide new air defence weaponry to Iran, and US officials may have leaked the intelligence to expose China’s plans. It’s not evident if the shoulder-launched missile that possibly brought down the F-15 was delivered to Iran recently or it was shipped years ago. Earlier, the Trump administration accused China of providing Iran access to Chinese satellites to help it target US forces in the region. Also Read: DK Shivakumar elected CLP leader, to take oath as Karnataka Chief Minister on June 3 The US State Department imposed sanctions on three Chinese satellite companies that were providing imagery and data to enable Iran to launch attacks against US forces in the Middle East. China denied the accusation. China sold large quantities of weapons to Iran in the 1980s and 1990s, including ballistic missiles, anti-ship missiles, tanks, artillery and fighter jets. However, Beijing backed away from major weapons sales after a UN arms embargo against Iran in 2006 and instead provided dual-use components and technology to Iran that had both civilian and military uses. Iran then built its own domestic industry to produce weapons for its military.

The use of Chinese weapons by Iran against the US makes America’s relationship with Beijing difficult at a time when President Donald Trump has sought Beijing’s help in ending the war. The US continues to launch its “defensive” strikes on Iran amid the ongoing negotiations to end the war.

Iran likely used a shoulder-fired Chinese missile to shoot down US fighter jet: Report

A major escalation in the US-Iran war after reports that American warplanes, including an F-15E Strike Eagle and an A-10 attack aircraft, were downed by Iranian air defences. The incidents have raised serious questions about US air dominance over Iranian skies, despite earlier claims of aerial superiority.


US-Iran War: American Warplanes Shot Down by Iran; Challenges US Air Dominance

While both crew members rely on the ACES II ejection system, the rear seat automatically fires roughly 0.3 seconds before the front seat to prevent rocket blast injuries.

While both crew members rely on the ACES II ejection system, the rear seat automatically fires roughly 0.3 seconds before the front seat to prevent rocket blast injuries.

'Front or back': Which seat gives the pilot a better chance of survival in a crash in the F-15E Strike Eagle

The $31 million F-15E Strike Eagle boasts a massive service ceiling of 60,000 feet and a 50,000-foot-per-minute climb rate. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney engines, it dominates high-altitude combat.


The $31 million F-15E Strike Eagle boasts a massive service ceiling of 60,000 feet and a 50,000-foot-per-minute climb rate. Powered by twin Pratt &amp; Whitney engines, it dominates high-altitude combat.

'50,000 feet per minute': How high can the F‑15E Strike Eagle go?

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked the United States on Friday for its “brilliant no-strategy war” in an X post after an American fighter jet was shot down over southwestern Iran. Ghalibaf also ridiculed President Donald Trump for repeatedly claiming that Iran has been defeated in the war.&nbsp;“After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from ‘regime change’ to ‘Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?’,” Ghalibaf said in a post on his X account.“Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses,” he added sarcastically, rubbing salt in the wounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from “regime change” to “Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?🥺” Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2040088542689288239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capture-us-pilot-alive-get-reward-says-iranian-media-after-tehran-claims-it-downed-f-15e-1775229711486">‘Capture US pilot alive, get reward,’ says Iranian media after Tehran claims it downed F-15E</a>&nbsp;Ghalibaf’s account has been very active recently, as it keeps posting memes occasionally, while he was last seen on state TV over a fortnight ago, on 17 March.Some unconfirmed reports suggested that the Donald Trump administration was considering Ghalibaf as a potential partner and possibly even a future leader of Iran.&nbsp;Trump said on 31 March that there has been regime change in Iran, adding that the new Iranian leaders are “much less radicalised” and more “rational”.Iran and the US have been trading accusations and stepping up military posturing in recent weeks.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-carrying-iranian-crude-to-indian-port-in-gujarat-reroutes-to-china-1775226409514">Ship carrying Iranian crude to Indian port in Gujarat reroutes to China</a>&nbsp;According to the Fars news agency, the jet was struck over central Iran by a newly deployed air defence system operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force.“A search operation has begun for the American fighter pilot who was targeted and shot down by the Iranian Armed Forces,” the report said.&nbsp;Iranian media claimed the aircraft was a fifth-generation F-35 jet.Analysts warn that any confirmed loss of a US fifth-generation fighter jet could mark a significant escalation in the conflict.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-states-seek-unsc-mandate-for-force-to-protect-hormuz-china-france-russia-may-veto-move-1775160810714">Gulf states seek UNSC mandate for force to protect Hormuz; China, France, Russia may veto move</a>&nbsp;The United States confirmed earlier that it had lost an F-15E fighter jet over Iran. The US fighter jet was downed days after the Pentagon claimed that Iranian air defences had been so degraded that American planes could fly unimpeded over the country.President Trump also threatened to bomb Iran “to the stone age where it belongs.”Iranian media also claimed that a US helicopter sent on a search and rescue mission was also downed, while Tehran announced a $60,000 bounty for any citizen who locates the downed pilots.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-world-on-edge-of-wider-war-people-are-already-struggling-says-un-chief-antonio-guterres-1775149940522">‘World on edge of wider war, people are already struggling,’ says UN chief Antonio Guterres</a>&nbsp;The downing is the first known loss of a manned jet in the current operations, though US forces have faced other aircraft losses, including a March 2 “friendly fire” incident involving Kuwaiti air defences.&nbsp;The US has also lost an E-3 Sentry AWACS plane on the ground on March 27 and more than a dozen unmanned MQ-9 Reaper drones, as per Iranian claims.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-attorney-general-pam-bondi-after-criticism-over-epstein-files-releases-1775150955840">Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi after criticism over Epstein files releases</a>&nbsp;Iran has additionally claimed to have shot down at least one F-35 Lightning jet, though this has not been confirmed by the US.&nbsp;

The United States confirmed earlier that it had lost an F-15E fighter jet over Iran. The US fighter jet was downed days after the Pentagon claimed that Iranian air defences had been so degraded that American planes could fly unimpeded over the country.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked the United States on Friday for its “brilliant no-strategy war” in an X post after an American fighter jet was shot down over southwestern Iran. Ghalibaf also ridiculed President Donald Trump for repeatedly claiming that Iran has been defeated in the war. “After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from ‘regime change’ to ‘Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?’,” Ghalibaf said in a post on his X account. “Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses,” he added sarcastically, rubbing salt in the wounds.

The United States confirmed earlier that it had lost an F-15E fighter jet over Iran. The US fighter jet was downed days after the Pentagon claimed that Iranian air defences had been so degraded that American planes could fly unimpeded over the country.

Downgrade from ‘regime change’ to ‘find our pilots’: Iran’s speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocks US over downed jet

Reports of an F-15E Strike Eagle downed over Iran highlight the vulnerability of non-stealth jets against modern air defences. Despite the F-15 family's 104-0 aerial record, the $31 million ground-attack variant remains susceptible to SAM strikes.

Reports of an F-15E Strike Eagle downed over Iran highlight the vulnerability of non-stealth jets against modern air defences. Despite the F-15 family's 104-0 aerial record, the $31 million ground-attack variant remains susceptible to SAM strikes.

Shattered in Iran?: The combat record of the US F‑15E fighter jet

Tehran claimed to have shot down a US F-15E fighter jet on Friday, after which the Iranian media announced rewards for civilians who capture the pilot alive and hand them over to authorities. Iranian state-run media reported that officials are offering a reward of 10 billion toman (approximately $60,000 USD) to any citizen who locates the downed American pilots. State-affiliated Iranian channels have claimed that the US fighter pilot ejected from the aircraft over southwestern Iran after it was shot down, which is the first known loss of a jet inside Iran since the start of the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ship-carrying-iranian-crude-to-indian-port-in-gujarat-reroutes-to-china-1775226409514">Ship carrying Iranian crude to Indian port in Gujarat reroutes to China</a>&nbsp;The reward announcement comes as US officials, who believe the pilot may be alive, attempt to extract him from Iranian territory through an ongoing combat search and rescue operation. Iranian state media shared images online purportedly showing American aircraft, including helicopters, planes, and drones, flying over the area.&nbsp;“If a pilot or an enemy pilot is captured and handed over alive to the law enforcement or military forces, you will receive a significant reward and compensation. If you see an airplane or helicopter in the sky, make sure to target it,” the anchor of the channel in Kohkilouyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province read out a message.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gulf-states-seek-unsc-mandate-for-force-to-protect-hormuz-china-france-russia-may-veto-move-1775160810714">Gulf states seek UNSC mandate for force to protect Hormuz; China, France, Russia may veto move</a>&nbsp;The governor of the south-western Iranian province announced that anyone who captures or kills the American pilot, who is reported to have ejected during the crash, would be commended by the authorities.&nbsp;State-affiliated Iranian channels have claimed that the US fighter pilot ejected from their aircraft over southwestern Iran after it was shot down, which is the first known loss of a jet inside Iran since the start of the war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fires-attorney-general-pam-bondi-after-criticism-over-epstein-files-releases-1775150955840">Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi after criticism over Epstein files releases</a>&nbsp;The reward announcement comes as US officials, who believe the pilot may be alive, attempt to extract him from Iranian territory through an ongoing combat search and rescue operation. Iranian state media shared images online purportedly showing American aircraft, including helicopters, planes, and drones, flying over the area.Tehran-linked channels also aired visuals of metal debris loaded onto the back of a pickup truck, suggesting a possible crash site, which is a mountainous area located about 500 kilometres south-west of Tehran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-world-on-edge-of-wider-war-people-are-already-struggling-says-un-chief-antonio-guterres-1775149940522">‘World on edge of wider war, people are already struggling,’ says UN chief Antonio Guterres</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed a major military success, announcing on Friday that a second F-35 fighter jet had been shot down over central Iran by an advanced air defence system operated by its Aerospace Force. The IRGC alleged that the aircraft belonged to the US Air Force’s Lakenheath squadron.The IRGC further said the fighter jet was completely destroyed upon impact. The claim follows an earlier assertion by Iranian forces on March 19 that they had downed what they described as the first-ever F-35 in combat.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malda-sir-judicial-officers-hostage-case-mastermind-moffakkerul-islam-arrested-nia-takes-over-probe-1775219518033">Malda SIR judicial officers hostage mastermind Moffakkerul Islam arrested; NIA takes over probe</a>&nbsp;Iran's state broadcaster, IRIB, also posted on X that crowds of civilians had driven out in private cars toward the crash site. “Many people in southwestern Iran have gone to the area around the crash site of the American fighter jet in private cars to capture the American pilot. The Iranian armed forces have called on the people NOT TO LET anyone mistreat the pilot,” it wrote.

State-affiliated Iranian channels have claimed that the US fighter pilot ejected from their aircraft over southwestern Iran after it was shot down, which is the first known loss of a jet inside Iran since the start of the war.

Tehran claimed to have shot down a US F-15E fighter jet on Friday, after which the Iranian media announced rewards for civilians who capture the pilot alive and hand them over to authorities. Iranian state-run media reported that officials are offering a reward of 10 billion toman (approximately $60,000 USD) to any citizen who locates the downed American pilots. State-affiliated Iranian channels have claimed that the US fighter pilot ejected from the aircraft over southwestern Iran after it was shot down, which is the first known loss of a jet inside Iran since the start of the war. Also Read: Ship carrying Iranian crude to Indian port in Gujarat reroutes to China The reward announcement comes as US officials, who believe the pilot may be alive, attempt to extract him from Iranian territory through an ongoing combat search and rescue operation. Iranian state media shared images online purportedly showing American aircraft, including helicopters, planes, and drones, flying over the area. “If a pilot or an enemy pilot is captured and handed over alive to the law enforcement or military forces, you will receive a significant reward and compensation. If you see an airplane or helicopter in the sky, make sure to target it,” the anchor of the channel in Kohkilouyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province read out a message. Also Read: Gulf states seek UNSC mandate for force to protect Hormuz; China, France, Russia may veto move The governor of the south-western Iranian province announced that anyone who captures or kills the American pilot, who is reported to have ejected during the crash, would be commended by the authorities. State-affiliated Iranian channels have claimed that the US fighter pilot ejected from their aircraft over southwestern Iran after it was shot down, which is the first known loss of a jet inside Iran since the start of the war. Also Read: Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi after criticism over Epstein files releases The reward announcement comes as US officials, who believe the pilot may be alive, attempt to extract him from Iranian territory through an ongoing combat search and rescue operation. Iranian state media shared images online purportedly showing American aircraft, including helicopters, planes, and drones, flying over the area. Tehran-linked channels also aired visuals of metal debris loaded onto the back of a pickup truck, suggesting a possible crash site, which is a mountainous area located about 500 kilometres south-west of Tehran. Also Read: ‘World on edge of wider war, people are already struggling,’ says UN chief Antonio Guterres Earlier, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed a major military success, announcing on Friday that a second F-35 fighter jet had been shot down over central Iran by an advanced air defence system operated by its Aerospace Force. The IRGC alleged that the aircraft belonged to the US Air Force’s Lakenheath squadron. The IRGC further said the fighter jet was completely destroyed upon impact. The claim follows an earlier assertion by Iranian forces on March 19 that they had downed what they described as the first-ever F-35 in combat. Also Read: Malda SIR judicial officers hostage mastermind Moffakkerul Islam arrested; NIA takes over probe Iran's state broadcaster, IRIB, also posted on X that crowds of civilians had driven out in private cars toward the crash site. “Many people in southwestern Iran have gone to the area around the crash site of the American fighter jet in private cars to capture the American pilot. The Iranian armed forces have called on the people NOT TO LET anyone mistreat the pilot,” it wrote.