Three US Warplanes Shot Down by Friendly Fire

A Navy F/A-18 during operations in the southern Red Sea in March. Christopher Pike—Bloomberg via Getty Images

Three US warplanes were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait’s air defences on Sunday night, according to a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The incident, which occurred amid active fighting involving Iranian attacks, has sparked significant concern.

The three F-15E Strike Eagles were flying as part of Operation Epic Fury when they were downed due to what CENTCOM described as a “friendly fire incident.” At the time of the attack, the region was experiencing heightened tensions, with Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones targeting US and allied forces. The US Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly targeted by Kuwaiti air defences during this chaotic period of combat.

                                                                       US Warplanes Shot Down by Friendly Fire. AFP

Fortunately, all six members of the aircrew aboard the downed aircraft ejected safely, escaping any injuries. CENTCOM expressed gratitude toward the Kuwaiti defence forces for their support in this ongoing operation, stating that Kuwait has acknowledged the incident.

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“We are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defence forces and their support in this ongoing operation,” the statement read.

While the investigation continues, both the US and Kuwaiti forces are working together to address the aftermath of this incident.

 

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  • Tope Oke

    Temitope is a storyteller driven by a passion for the intricate world of geopolitics, the raw beauty of wildlife, and the dynamic spirit of sports. As both a writer and editor, he excels at crafting insightful and impactful narratives that not only inform but also inspire and advocate for positive change. Through his work, he aims to shed light on complex issues, celebrate diverse perspectives, and encourage readers to engage with the world around them in a more meaningful way.

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