In brief
Rescue teams are conducting a hazardous search for a US crew member after an F-15 fighter jet was downed over Iran. While reports confirm the rescue of one pilot, efforts continue to locate the second crew member amidst aggressive search-and-rescue operations and potential threats from Iranian forces. The mission underscores the dangers and complexities involved in Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) operations.
Early reports indicate that the pilot of a US F-15 fighter aircraft downed over Iran was rescued - which, if confirmed, would be the latest in the long history of US combat search-and-rescue missions over decades.
The search operation is ongoing deep inside Iran for a second crew member, according to CBS, the BBC's US partner.
Combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions are considered among the most complex, time-sensitive operations that US and allied militaries prepare for.
In the US, elite units of the air force are specially trained for CSAR missions and are often pre-emptively deployed near conflict areas where aircraft could be lost.
Put simply, CSAR missions are military operations aimed at finding, aiding and potentially rescuing personnel in need, including downed pilots and isolated troops.
In contrast to conventional search-and-rescue efforts - which could take place during humanitarian operations or after disasters - CSAR missions occur in hostile or contested environments. In some cases - as in Friday's reported recovery effort in Iran - the operations may happen deep in enemy territory.
CSAR missions are often conducted by helicopters, with refuelling aircraft in support and other military aircraft on hand to conduct strikes and patrol the area. A former commander of a pararescue jumpers squadron told CBS News that a rescue operation like the one in Iran would involve at least 24 pararescue jumpers scouring the area in Black Hawk helicopters.
They added that the team would be prepared to jump from planes if needed, and once on the ground their priority would be to contact the missing crew member. Upon locating him, the pararescue jumpers would deliver medical aid if necessary, evade the enemy and get to a place where they can be rescued, according to CBS News.
Harrowing and massively dangerous is an understatement, the former commander told CBS News. Moreover, verifying video footage emerged, appearing to show US military helicopters and at least one refuelling aircraft operating over Iran's Khuzestan province.
The missions are extremely time-sensitive, as enemy forces would likely be deployed in the same area to try and locate the same US personnel that the CSAR teams are trying to rescue. Iranian officials have also urged citizens to find the missing US crew member alive and are offering rewards for their capture, according to state media.
Recent statements from experts highlight the significant implications of capturing the US crew member as a powerful bargaining chip in regional dynamics.
