Iran shoots down second US F-35 jet; pilot survival unlikely
What's the story
Iranian authorities have claimed to have shot down a second United States F-35 fighter jet over central Iran, Reuters reported, citing the Mehr news agency on Friday. Iranian sources said that the survival of the pilot is unlikely, although this has not been confirmed by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM).
Military developments
CENTCOM had confirmed downing of 3 F-15Es
Earlier, on March 2, CENTCOM had confirmed the downing of three US F-15E Strike Eagles over Kuwait due to friendly fire. The incident occurred amid active combat with Iranian forces, where US aircraft were "mistakenly" shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses. On March 31, CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper said they are making "undeniable progress" in Operation Epic Fury.
Twitter Post
Iran shares pictures of alleged downed jet
Spokesman of Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters:
— Mehr News Agency (@MehrnewsCom) April 3, 2026
🔺 A second US fifth-generation F-35 was struck and downed over central Iran.
🔺 Given the massive explosion on impact and during the crash, the pilot is unlikely to have ejected. pic.twitter.com/8TX4jsbebw
Iran
Iran also launched missiles at Israel
Iran also launched missiles at Israel on Friday morning, which the country's military was attempting to intercept. Israel's military announced in a statement that it has "identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel." It added, "defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat." Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) said in a statement that it had targeted areas of Tel Aviv and the port city of Eilat with long-range missiles.