A Kuwaiti civilian ran across the desert to assist a US fighter pilot after her aircraft was mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defences during a regional military operation, US officials have confirmed.
The incident occurred during what US authorities described as Operation Epic Fury. A US F-15E Strike Eagle was brought down amid what officials said was confusion caused by Iranian missile and drone attacks in the area.
The female pilot ejected safely and landed in the desert at sunset. According to accounts shared by US officials, a local Kuwaiti man reached her before military rescue teams arrived.
“Are you fine? You are safe! Thank you for helping us,” the man reportedly told the pilot, expressing appreciation for the United States’ security role in the region.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) said all six American aircrew members from three F-15E aircraft involved in the operation ejected safely. They were recovered within hours and are in stable condition.
Kuwaiti authorities have acknowledged the incident, describing it as an error that occurred amid heightened tensions and incoming aerial threats.
In a statement, US President Donald Trump praised the safe recovery of the personnel and highlighted the cooperation between the two countries.
The episode underscores both the risks of complex coalition military operations and the longstanding defence partnership between the United States and Kuwait.
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