Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Friday, April 3, 2026, that its air defense systems shot down a US F-35 fighter jet in central Iranian airspace. The claim, published via the IRGC-affiliated Sepah News, included images purportedly showing aircraft wreckage and stated the jet was destroyed by advanced systems operated by its Aerospace Division.
The IRGC identified the aircraft as part of the 'Lakenheath squadron,' linked to the US 48th Fighter Wing based at Britain's RAF Lakenheath. It added that the pilot's survival was unlikely due to the intensity of the explosion during the strike. This marks the second such incident in recent weeks: on March 19, the IRGC claimed it heavily damaged another F-35, which the US later confirmed made an emergency landing with its pilot in stable condition.
Tensions between Iran and the US-Israel alliance remain high following joint attacks on Tehran and other cities in late February 2026, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli and US assets in the region. The IRGC asserts it has neutralized multiple hostile aircraft since the conflict began.
As of press time, the US has not commented on the latest incident. Analysts warn the escalating cycle of strikes risks further destabilizing the Middle East.
