US F-35 hit by Iranian fire, makes emergency landing in Middle East

A US F-35 stealth warplane was struck by suspected Iranian fire and made an emergency landing at an American air base in the Middle East on March 15, 2026. The pilot is in stable condition, though US Central Command has not confirmed the reports from outlets including ABC and CNN. This incident occurs amid ongoing US-led air campaign against Iran launched February 28, 2026, following a major buildup of US forces including F-35s in the region. Thirteen US service members have died since the operation began, including six in a KC-135 crash and seven in Iranian attacks. Around 200 personnel have been wounded across seven countries, with most returning to duty.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/03/19/us-f-35-stealth-fighter-hit-by-suspected-iranian-fire-reports/