
U.S. forces launched a large, multi‑platform rescue to recover crew from an F-15 shot down over Iran, deploying bombers, fighters, tankers, helicopters, unmanned systems and specialized rescue platforms. The president described the effort as an 'air armada' that relied on secret CIA technology and subterfuge and involved hundreds of personnel. The Defense Department has not publicly confirmed every element of that account, and reporting indicates searches continued for a second crew member.
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