The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that the shooting down of three American fighter jets over Kuwait on Monday was the result of a friendly fire incident involving Kuwaiti air defence systems.
Earlier, the Kuwait Ministry of Defence announced that several US military aircraft had crashed but did not disclose the cause or the number involved. The ministry stated that all crew members were safe.
In a subsequent statement, CENTCOM clarified that three United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft were flying in support of “Operation Epic Fury” when they were mistakenly engaged by Kuwaiti air defences during active combat operations.
According to CENTCOM, the jets “went down over Kuwait due to an apparent friendly fire incident” amid a highly volatile operational environment that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles and drones.
“All six aircrew ejected safely, have been recovered, and are in stable condition,” the statement said, noting that Kuwait has acknowledged the incident. CENTCOM also expressed appreciation for the response and cooperation of Kuwaiti defence forces.
The incident occurred against the backdrop of escalating hostilities in the region. The United States and Israel have been conducting strikes on Iran since Saturday. In response, Tehran launched missiles and drones targeting Israel and multiple US bases across the Gulf, including installations in Kuwait.
CENTCOM said the circumstances surrounding the friendly fire incident remain under investigation and pledged to release further details as they become available.
