3 U.S. Fighter Jets 'Mistakenly' Shot Down Over Kuwait amid Iran Attacks

6 Aircrew Recovered After Ejecting 'Safely' During Friendly Fire Incident

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during active combat operations against Iran, known as "Operation Epic Fury". All six aircrew members ejected safely and were recovered, according to the U.S. Central Command. The incident is under investigation.

Why it matters

This friendly fire incident highlights the risks and challenges of coordinating complex military operations, especially in a volatile regional conflict. It also raises questions about the rules of engagement and safeguards in place to prevent such accidents, which can have serious consequences for personnel and international relations.

The details

The U.S. fighter jets were providing air support for "Operation Epic Fury", a coordinated military campaign launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran on February 28. During the active combat, which included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones, the U.S. jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses.

  • On Sunday, March 1, the 3 U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were shot down over Kuwait.
  • On Monday, March 2, the U.S. Central Command confirmed the incident.

The players

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM)

The U.S. military command responsible for operations in the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia.

Kuwait

A Gulf Arab country that borders Iraq and Saudi Arabia, and hosts several U.S. military bases.

Iran

The Middle Eastern country that has been the target of the coordinated U.S. and Israeli military campaign known as "Operation Epic Fury".

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What’s next

The cause of the incident is under investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

The takeaway

This friendly fire incident underscores the complexity and risks involved in coordinating large-scale military operations, especially in volatile regional conflicts. It highlights the need for robust safeguards and clear rules of engagement to prevent such accidents, which can have serious consequences for personnel and international relations.