US aviator shot down over Iran recalls 'free-falling' in first interview
A US Air Force pilot recounts the harrowing experience of ejecting from his F-15E jet after it was shot down over Iran. Despite suffering severe injuries, the pilot successfully evaded capture until he was rescued by US special forces.
Why it matters
This account provides rare insight into a high-stakes military engagement between US and Iranian forces, highlighting the risks of aerial operations in the region.
Figure caption, US airman shot down over Iran recounts 'free-falling' with no parachute
A US Air Force pilot has described "free-falling" to the ground with a damaged parachute after his plane was shot down over Iran, leading to a dangerous rescue operation.
"At one point, when I looked up and saw no parachute, that was the most terrifying thing I've ever seen," said the pilot, who was not named in the interview with CBS News's 60 Minutes programme.
The segment, which aired on Sunday, is the first time one of the pilots involved in the April incident over Iran has spoken out about their ordeal.
The two US troops ejected from the damaged plane, were separated, and had to evade Iranian forces while they awaited rescue from US special forces.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in