WASHINGTON D.C March 2, 2026 – The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that three F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses in a friendly fire incident while supporting Operation Epic Fury.
The incident occurred at 11:03 p.m. ET on March 1 during active combat that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones. The U.S. Air Force jets went down over Kuwait, according to the official statement.
All six aircrew members ejected safely, have been recovered, and are in stable condition. Kuwait has acknowledged the incident, and CENTCOM expressed gratitude for the Kuwaiti defense forces’ support and assistance in the recovery.
“The cause of the incident is under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available,” the CENTCOM statement read.
The aircraft were flying in support of Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing U.S.-led military operation in the region.
No U.S. fatalities were reported in this incident. The story is developing, and further updates are expected as the investigation proceeds.
Source: Official U.S. Central Command press release and statement posted on X (@CENTCOM).
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