US pilot shot down over Iran recalls ‘free-falling’ in first interview since rescue

US Aviator Shot Down Over Iran Recalls ‘Free-Falling’ in First Interview

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Key Points:

  • A US Air Force pilot describes "free-falling" after his plane was shot down over Iran.
  • The pilot, identified as "Bravo," had no parachute when he hit the ground at around 70-100mph (113-161km/h).
  • He survived with broken back, shoulder and arm but considered it a "miracle."
  • This is the first interview one of the pilots involved has given about their ordeal.
  • The other pilot, identified as "Alpha," declined to be interviewed.
  • Both pilots were rescued after evading Iranian forces for hours in dangerous conditions.
  • A significant US rescue operation was launched involving special forces and helicopters.

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