A fighter jet of the United States Air Force crashed in western Kuwait on March 2, 2026, during ongoing military activity in the Middle East. The pilot managed to eject safely before the aircraft struck the ground.
The jet was identified as an F-15E Strike Eagle and reportedly went down at a time of rising tensions in the region involving Iran and its allied forces. Initial information suggests the pilot escaped with minor injuries after ejecting shortly before impact.
Footage shared on social media appears to show the aircraft losing altitude quickly before crashing, with smoke seen rising from the site. Other videos show local residents helping the pilot after landing and trying to arrange medical assistance.
Preliminary reports have raised the possibility of friendly fire, though authorities have not confirmed the cause. United States Central Command has yet to release an official statement, and an inquiry is in progress.
The crash took place during heightened hostilities following recent US and Israeli operations targeting Iranian positions. Reports indicate that retaliatory strikes have since focused on American military facilities in the Gulf, including bases in Kuwait.
Officials confirmed there were no deaths and that the pilot was recovered safely. Kuwaiti authorities also referred to recent drone activity near Kuwait International Airport, which led to temporary disruptions in airspace.