Southern Iran – U.S. combat search-and-rescue aircraft carried out a high-altitude recovery operation after an F-15E Strike Eagle crew was shot down during Operation Epic Fury in April 2026.

The recovery took place from April 2 to 5. Pilot DUDE 44 Alpha was recovered on the first day, while weapons systems officer DUDE 44 Bravo, injured in a hard landing, remained on a mountain ridgeline for nearly two days before being extracted.

Air Force footage shows helicopters sweeping the rugged terrain as rescue crews move toward an isolated airman on the slope. Extraction aircraft operate over steep desert mountains as the recovery unfolds.

The operation involved HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters, pararescue operators, MC-130J aircraft and Little Birds, along with supporting strikes.

No U.S. fatalities were reported.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download