Friendly-Fire Incident in Kuwait: Three U.S. F-15E Jets Shot Down, All Aircrew Safe
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defense systems during active combat operations.
The F-15E is a two-seat multirole fighter jet, meaning each aircraft carried two crew members. All six aircrew successfully ejected from their aircraft and were safely recovered. Officials reported that the personnel were in stable condition following the incident.
The event has been classified as a friendly-fire incident, and a formal investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the misidentification and engagement.
Footage circulating online shows local Kuwaiti civilians approaching and assisting at least one of the ejected pilots on the ground shortly after landing. The videos capture moments of reassurance as the pilot awaited military recovery teams.
U.S. and Kuwaiti authorities are continuing to review the incident as part of standard military protocol following unintended engagements between allied forces.
