U.S. military forces have successfully rescued the second crew member from an F-15E fighter jet that was shot down over Iran on Friday, according to officials who spoke with ABC News.
The rescued officer, identified as the weapon systems officer onboard the two-seat aircraft, was recovered during a mission carried out late Saturday night. The pilot had already been located and rescued a day earlier by U.S. search and rescue teams.
The recovery operation faced significant challenges, as two Black Hawk helicopters involved in the mission came under fire from Iranian forces. Although some crew members sustained injuries, the helicopters were able to return safely.
Additionally, an A-10 Warthog aircraft providing close air support during the operation was also struck by enemy fire. Despite the damage, the pilot managed to fly the aircraft to Kuwait, where they ejected safely before the jet eventually crashed.