A United States F-15 pilot rescued after being shot down above Iran in April reported seeing an unusual formation of Iranian drones resembling a 'jellyfish' before ejecting, CNN reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the account.
Pilot's Account of Drone Formation
During a post-mission debrief, the pilot told intelligence officials he observed several drones moving together in a pattern that looked like a jellyfish. One source described the formation as 'multiple drones interconnected and moving as one with smaller drones below the bigger drones like legs.' The source added, 'Real alien (expletive).' Another source said the pilot saw a 'minefield of drones' in the sky, according to the report.
Implications for Iran's Drone Technology
If accurate, the sighting could indicate a significant advancement in Iran's drone technology, said the report. Investigators are still determining what caused the F-15 to be downed, but early assessments suggested the drone formation may have helped Iran shoot down the aircraft. The incident marked the first US aircraft shot down above Iran during the conflict.
Rescue and Intelligence Disagreements
The pilot was recovered within hours, while a weapons systems officer evaded capture for more than one day before being rescued. US intelligence officials disagreed about the pilot's account and its reliability, said the report. During the debriefing, officials reportedly asked, 'Are you sure you saw what you are saying you saw?'
Context of US-Iran Negotiations
The questions surrounding Iran's drone capabilities came as Washington and Tehran pursue negotiations to end the war, following the start of a 60-day ceasefire-based talks period last week.
