Iran Claims Strike on US F-35 Fighter Jet; US Confirms Damage and Safe Landing

Iran claimed to have struck a US F-35 stealth fighter jet during a combat mission over its territory. US officials confirmed the aircraft was damaged by what is believed to be Iranian fire and made an emergency landing at a US air base in the Middle East, with the pilot surviving in stable condition.

A spokesperson for US Central Command said the aircraft landed safely and an investigation is underway into the cause of the damage. Washington has not fully confirmed Tehran's account but acknowledged the strike.

The F-35 is one of the most advanced stealth aircraft, designed to avoid radar detection with internal weapons bays, sensor fusion and real-time data-sharing. Each unit costs more than $100 million and is used or ordered by over 19 countries.

The incident raises questions about the F-35's stealth capabilities and Iran's air defense systems. It occurs amid broader US losses in the ongoing conflict, with at least 16 aircraft lost since the war began, including several MQ-9 Reaper drones and others in accidents or friendly fire.

US officials insist operations continue despite the reported strike, which has added to scrutiny of tactics in Iranian airspace.