A United States Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter narrowly escaped being hit by an Iranian missile during a low-altitude attack mission in the context of Operation Epic Fury.
Videos circulating online show the moment the aircraft flies low and fires its cannon, being surprised by a portable air defense system (MANPADS). The projectile explodes just behind the plane, suggesting a “near miss”, with no clear signs of significant damage.
The episode occurred in the coastal region of Chabahar, in southeastern Iran, a strategic area close to Pakistan that had already been the target of attacks since the beginning of the conflict. The choice for low-altitude flights would be linked to operational needs and the greater predictability of threats in the region, in addition to the proximity to the sea, which would facilitate eventual rescue operations. Still, the incident reinforces that Iranian air defenses remain active, especially through mobile and difficult-to-detect systems.
Although Iran claimed the aircraft was shot down and crashed in the Indian Ocean, US Central Command denied any loss. So far, only one previous case of a US aircraft being struck has been confirmed, involving an F-35 that managed to land after sustaining damage. Experts point out that, despite claims of air supremacy, the US still faces real risks in parts of Iranian territory, especially with the advancement of operations into deeper areas of the country.
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The incident occurs amid the escalation of the conflict, with intensified attacks, military movements and diplomatic tensions. Reports indicate Russia’s indirect support for Iran, in addition to new attacks between Tehran and Israel and impacts across the region, including the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, negotiations continue indirectly, while the United States evaluates possible next steps, which could include broader actions and further increase the level of confrontation.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: @USNavy | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
WATCH: Iranian MANPADS hit came very close to taking out a U.S. Navy F/A-18E/F Super Hornet jet over Iran yesterday. pic.twitter.com/GwSz9xlXQb
— Clash Report (@clashreport) March 26, 2026
