F-35 Fighter Jet Damaged in Iranian Incident During Combat Mission
A US F-35 fighter jet was reportedly damaged by Iranian fire while conducting a combat mission over Iran, resulting in an emergency landing at a US air base in the Middle East. This incident marks a significant event, as it would be the first time a US fighter jet has been hit by Iran since the conflict began on February 28. An investigation is underway to ascertain the details surrounding the incident, with updates expected soon.
| Mar 19, 2026, 22:06 IST
Emergency Landing of F-35 Fighter Jet
On March 19, a fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet from the United States sustained damage due to an incident involving Iranian fire. The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at a US military base located in the Middle East, as reported by various sources. According to Capt. Tim Hawkins, a representative from US Central Command, the jet was engaged in a combat mission over Iran at the time of the emergency landing. An investigation is currently underway to determine the specifics of the incident. Hawkins confirmed that the aircraft landed without further complications. If verified, this event would represent the first instance of a US fighter jet being struck by Iranian fire since the conflict began on February 28.
(More updates to come...)