According to preliminary reports, the pilot of the US F-15 fighter jet shot down in Iranian airspace has been rescued. If this information is confirmed, it will be the latest incident within the scope of the US's decade-long combat search and rescue missions.
CBS, a partner of the BBC in the US, reports that the operation to search for the second crew member is currently ongoing in Iranian territory.
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions are considered among the most complex and time-sensitive operations prepared for by US and allied militaries.
In the US, elite units of the Air Force are specially trained for CSAR missions and are often pre-positioned in potential trouble areas where aircraft loss is possible.
Simply put, CSAR missions are special military operations aimed at finding, assisting, and rescuing military personnel in need of help, including downed pilots and isolated soldiers.
