IRGC Reportedly Downs U.S. MH-60G Pave Hawk During CSAR Mission in Southern Iran
Local Iranian media report that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has shot down a U.S. MH-60G Pave Hawk using a man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) during a low-altitude operation.
The incident reportedly occurred over Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, as the helicopter was conducting a search and rescue mission for the pilot of a F-15E Strike Eagle previously reported downed in the area.
The aircraft was said to be flying at low altitude to evade radar detection when it was engaged by ground-based air defense units. Details regarding casualties or the fate of onboard personnel remain unclear.
There has been no official confirmation from U.S. authorities. If verified, the incident would mark a significant escalation, highlighting the risks faced by rescue operations operating deep inside contested airspace.