Iran Claims to Shoot Down ‘Invisible’ US Stealth Aircraft, Pilot Arrested

Islamabad — Iran has claimed that its air defense systems successfully shot down a US stealth fighter jet — undetectable by radar — after it entered Iranian airspace, and that the pilot has been captured and taken into custody.
According to Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the aircraft was targeted in central or southwestern Iran. Iranian outlets described it as a stealth jet equipped with advanced radar-evading technology. The pilot reportedly ejected and parachuted down, after which Iranian security forces detained him.
Iranian television channels broadcast appeals to citizens, urging them to report or hand over any “enemy pilot” to authorities in exchange for a substantial reward. Some reports identified the downed aircraft as an F-35 or F-15E Strike Eagle.
While the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has not issued an immediate official confirmation or denial, Iranian sources claim that American forces launched a search-and-rescue operation using Black Hawk helicopters and a C-130 Hercules aircraft flying at low altitude over western or central Iran. Tehran asserts that the US rescue mission failed.
This latest claim comes amid heightened tensions in the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict. Iran has repeatedly alleged shooting down US aircraft and drones in recent weeks, many of which Washington has denied.
Analysts warn that if verified, downing a stealth fighter would represent a significant blow to US air superiority in the region, as platforms like the F-35 are considered highly advanced. However, independent verification of the incident is still pending.
The situation remains highly volatile, with further statements expected from both sides.