US pilot reports swarm of Iranian drones before F-15 was shot down

WASHINGTON, June 23 (YPA) – A U.S. fighter pilot, rescued by special forces after his aircraft was shot down over Iran last April, described a chilling scene moments before ejecting.

He added that a swarm of Iranian drones was circling in the sky and moving in perfect coordination in a formation resembling a jellyfish. This was reported in an exclusive CNN investigation based on four sources familiar with the details.

The F-15 pilot gave this unprecedented testimony to intelligence officials during a post-incident briefing, which immediately sparked intense debate and concern within the U.S. intelligence community.

The U.S. network CNN said that if the pilot’s account was accurate, it would represent a significant and concerning technological advancement in Iran’s drone capabilities.

One source noted that “multiple drones appeared to be interconnected and moving as a single unit, with smaller drones positioned beneath larger ones, like tentacles,” adding, “it was truly unusual.” Another source said the pilot described “a field of drones” in the sky.

While investigations are still underway to determine the exact cause of the F-15’s downing, early reports suggest that the structure of the drone formation may have somehow enabled Iran to bring down the fighter jet.

Iranian air defenses have previously succeeded in downing several U.S. fighter jets, which observers said contributed to Washington eventually scaling back and ending its military operations against Iran.

AA