U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles Downed in Kuwait Friendly Fire Incident During Combat Operations

KUWAIT - Three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were downed by Kuwaiti air defenses in a friendly fire incident during Operation Epic Fury on March 1. All six aircrew ejected safely and were recovered in stable condition.

The jets were engaged at 11:03 p.m. ET while supporting strikes against Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones. Ejection occurred for all six crew members, with Kuwaiti authorities initiating immediate search and rescue procedures.

• Crews were evacuated to hospitals for medical checks, confirming stable conditions. U.S. Central Command detailed the sequence, noting gratitude for Kuwaiti efforts in the recovery.

• Direct coordination addressed circumstances, with joint technical measures implemented. The cause remains under investigation, with updates expected as available.

Diplomatic Channels

No diplomatic statements specifically addressing the incident from White House or State Department. Broader joint statement from U.S. and Gulf allies condemns Iranian attacks, according to a State Department release. UN Security Council session discussed regional strikes, according to UN press document.

What to Monitor

• Joint investigation results on IFF protocols - check CENTCOM releases over next weeks.

• Potential Iranian media exploitation - track state outlets via official feeds for statements.

• Airspace procedure updates in Gulf - monitor NOTAM changes on FAA site.

Official Statements

• U.S. Central Command, March 2: “At 11:03 p.m. ET, March 1, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles flying in support of Operation Epic Fury went down over Kuwait due to an apparent friendly fire incident. During active combat - that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones - the U.S. Air Force fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses. All six aircrew ejected safely, have been safely recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged this incident, and we are grateful for the efforts of the Kuwaiti defense forces and their support in this ongoing operation. The cause of the incident is under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.”

• Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense, March 2: “The official spokesman for the Ministry of Defense stated that a number of American warplanes crashed this morning, confirming that their crews were all saved. He explained that the competent authorities immediately began search and rescue procedures, and the crews were evacuated and transferred to the hospital to check on their health and provide the necessary medical care, noting that their condition is stable. The official spokesperson added that direct coordination took place with the friendly American forces regarding the circumstances of the incident, and joint technical measures were taken. He stressed that the relevant authorities are following up on the investigations to determine the causes of the accident, calling for information to be obtained from official sources.”