The United States Armed Forces carried out a large-scale rescue operation in Iran, deploying an “air armada” of 176 aircraft over 45 hours to recover two crew members of a downed F-15E Strike Eagle.
The mission spanned seven locations and involved a wide range of assets, including A-10 Warthog, HH-60 Jolly Green II, and HC-130 Combat King II, alongside fighters, bombers, refuelling tankers, and unmanned systems.
Speaking at the White House, Pete Hegseth described the mission as “unblinking,” highlighting continuous coordination over nearly two days. Donald Trump and senior military leaders, including Dan Caine, emphasized the complexity and risk involved.
Officials stated the massive operation showcased the US military’s rapid response capability and coordination in executing high-risk rescue missions under extreme conditions.
