Tehran, March 25: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that it shot down a US F-18 fighter jet near the southeastern port city of Chabahar, according to reports carried by state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). The aircraft allegedly crashed into the Indian Ocean after being struck by Iranian air defence systems.
The claim, which has not been independently verified, comes amid heightened tensions in the region. There has been no immediate confirmation or response from the United States regarding the reported incident. Middle East Conflict: Iran Receives Ceasefire Plan From US but Tehran Dismisses Idea of Negotiating With Washington.
IRGC Claims Downing of US F-18 Jet
Breaking:
A U.S. military #F18 has been struck by fire from Iran’s integrated air defense network.#Breaking #Iran #US #AirDefense #Military pic.twitter.com/HbXe5DAzwi
— Consulate General of the I.R. Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) March 25, 2026
NEW: IRGC claims an F/A-18 fighter jet was hit by Iranian air defenses off Chabahar.
IRGC also says the jet crashed into the Indian Ocean. pic.twitter.com/y8XMha9njB
— Clash Report (@clashreport) March 25, 2026
Iran Claims Downing of US F-18 Jet Near Chabahar
In a statement cited by state media, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the interception marked the fourth instance of successfully targeting what it described as “hostile US and Zionist military” aircraft. The report added that the operation was carried out using an advanced, domestically developed air defence system operated by the IRGC Navy, with support from the Basij force.
The incident was reported near Chabahar, a key port city on Iran’s southeastern coast along the Gulf of Oman. The region holds strategic importance due to its proximity to international shipping routes and its role in regional trade and military positioning. Any confirmed military engagement involving US aircraft in this area could have broader implications for security dynamics in the Indian Ocean region. Did Iran Shoot Down a US F-15? Central Command Debunks Rumours Going Viral on Social Media.
As of now, there is no independent verification of Iran’s claim, and details about the alleged downing remain limited. The United States has not issued an official statement confirming the loss of any aircraft. Such claims are often difficult to verify in real time, particularly in sensitive geopolitical contexts where information may be tightly controlled or contested.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 25, 2026 11:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).