Tehran – ANN (ANish News Network)

Iranian forces have claimed the downing of two advanced US fighter jets, including a second F-35 stealth aircraft, in a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.

In a statement released Friday, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) said its air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed a stealth F-35 Lightning II over central Iran.

F-35 Reportedly Destroyed

According to the IRGC, the aircraft—identified as belonging to the Lakenheath squadron—was completely destroyed upon impact after being struck by Iran’s “advanced and integrated” air defense network.

Officials stated that the wreckage was extensively fragmented, leaving the fate of the pilot unclear.

The incident marks what Iran claims is the second F-35 downed since the start of the current hostilities.

Second Jet Shot Down Near Persian Gulf

Earlier the same day, Iranian air defenses reportedly targeted another advanced US fighter jet near the strategic waters of the Persian Gulf.

The aircraft was hit south of Qeshm Island and crashed between Qeshm and Hengam islands, according to Iranian sources.

The IRGC described the interception as part of a coordinated defensive operation conducted by its naval air defense units.

Challenge to US Claims

The reported downings come in direct response to statements by Donald Trump, who had previously asserted that US forces had neutralized Iran’s air defense capabilities.

Iranian officials rejected those claims, describing them as inaccurate and asserting that their defensive systems remain fully operational and effective.

Mounting Aviation Losses

Iranian authorities claim that multiple US aircraft have been downed since the conflict began, including F-15, F-16, and F-18 fighter jets, in addition to the reported F-35 losses.

While US officials have acknowledged some losses—reportedly including several F-15 aircraft and a refueling tanker—they have not confirmed the extent of damage described by Iranian sources.

Disputed Narratives

The discrepancy between Iranian claims and US statements highlights the ongoing information battle accompanying the military conflict.

Iran alleges that Washington has attempted to downplay or obscure its losses, while US officials have characterized certain incidents as accidents or non-combat-related events.

Escalating Air War

The reported downing of advanced stealth aircraft, if confirmed, would represent a major shift in the aerial dimension of the conflict, potentially challenging long-held assumptions about US air superiority.

Analysts caution that independent verification of such claims remains limited, but agree that the intensifying air engagements signal a deepening and increasingly complex confrontation.

ANN will continue to follow developments in the air war and verify emerging claims from all sides.