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3 US warplanes shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses, pilots bail out in friendly fire incident, CENTCOM says

Three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses during active combat operations linked to Operation Epic Fury.

U.S. NewsBy James CrawfordMarch 2, 20261 min read

Last updated: April 6, 2026, 7:02 AM

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3 US warplanes shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses, pilots bail out in friendly fire incident, CENTCOM says

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Three U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles were shot down in a friendly fire incident over Kuwait late Sunday during active combat operations tied to Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said.

The aircraft were mistakenly engaged by Kuwaiti air defenses amid a complex battle environment that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles and drones.

All six aircrew members safely ejected, were quickly recovered, and are reported to be in stable condition.

Kuwaiti officials have acknowledged the incident, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause.

A burning aircraft falls from the sky in Al Jahra, Kuwait, in this still image obtained from social media video released on March 2, 2026. (Social Media/via REUTERS)

CENTCOM said additional details are expected as the review progresses.

This is a breaking news story; check back for updates.

Ashley Carnahan is a writer at Fox News Digital.

JC
James Crawford

National Correspondent

James Crawford is a national correspondent covering breaking news and domestic affairs across the United States. With over a decade of experience in investigative reporting, he has covered major stories from Capitol Hill to Main Street. His work focuses on the policies and events that shape American life.

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