On March 19, according to two sources familiar with the matter, a U.S. F-35 fighter jet made an emergency landing at a U.S. airbase in the Middle East after being suspected of being attacked by Iranian artillery fire. U.S. Central Command spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins stated that the fifth-generation stealth fighter was conducting a combat mission over Iran when it was forced to make an emergency landing. Hawkins said the aircraft landed safely and the incident is under investigation. This would be the first time an Iranian aircraft has been shot down since the start of the conflict in late February.
Both the United States and Israel have used F-35 fighter jets in the conflict; these aircraft cost over $100 million each. This emergency landing comes as senior U.S. officials continue to claim broad victories in their military operation against Iran. Defense Secretary Hergesse stated Thursday morning that the U.S. is "achieving a decisive victory" and that Iran's air defense system has been "destroyed." (CNN)
