Behind Enemy Lines: The Inside Story of the Daring US F-15E Rescue Mission in Iran
Behind Enemy Lines: The Inside Story of the Daring US F-15E Rescue Mission in Iran When an F-15E Strike Eagle went down over Iranian territory following a missile strike near Isfahan, it triggered one of the most high-stakes and dramatic combat search and rescue (CSAR) operations in modern military history. Months after the operation, newly declassified details and insider accounts have shed light on the incredible 50-hour ordeal of survival, deception, and special operations grit that brought both crew members home. The Crash and Separation: Ejection Over Hostile Territory In the early hours of April 2, the twin-seat F-15E Strike Eagle—carrying a pilot (call sign "Alpha") and a weapons systems officer/colonel (call sign "Bravo")—was struck by an Iranian shoulder-fired missile. Realizing the aircraft was beyond saving, the duo pulled the ejection handles at high velocity. Both men survived the initial bailout, though Bravo experienced a terrifying free-fall ...