Iranian “jellyfish” drones seen by US F-15 pilot moments before crash: CNN
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In a revelation that has drawn significant attention within the US intelligence community, a United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle pilot described encountering an unusual formation of Iranian drones resembling a jellyfish moments before his aircraft was shot down over Iran, according to a report by CNN.
The incident occurred on April 3, during the early stages of Operation Epic Fury, the US-led military campaign against Iranian forces.
The pilot, flying under the call sign Dude 44 with the 494th Fighter Squadron, reported observing multiple Iranian drones hovering and moving in coordinated unison, with smaller units positioned below larger ones akin to tentacles.
Sources familiar with his debriefing characterized the sight as a "minefield of drones" and, in one instance, "real alien s--t."
This account was shared with CNN by intelligence officials following the pilot's rescue and has not been previously disclosed publicly.
The F-15E was struck by a shoulder-fired missile, prompting the crew to eject. Both the pilot and weapons systems officer survived the initial engagement.
US special operations forces, including elements from Delta Force, DEVGRU, and Air Force Pararescuemen, conducted a high-risk combat search-and-rescue operation in Iran's Zagros Mountains. The crew was recovered after more than a day on the ground, marking a successful extraction under challenging conditions.
Analysts suggest that the observed "jellyfish" formation may represent advanced meshed networking or swarm capabilities, potentially enabling Iranian forces to enhance targeting or electronic warfare against US aircraft.
If verified, this would indicate substantial progress in Tehran's unmanned aerial vehicle technology, possibly supported by external assistance.
However, US intelligence remains cautious, with some officials questioning the accuracy of the account due to the pilot's high-stress circumstances or potential injuries.
The pilot's observations have sparked debate over the evolving threat posed by Iranian drone swarms. Experts note that such formations could counter traditional air superiority by creating complex, interconnected aerial obstacles.
