During last month’s 12-day conflict with Iran, an Israeli F-15 fighter jet encountered a critical fuel tank malfunction while operating near Tehran, nearly forcing an emergency landing, Channel 12 revealed for the first time.
The pilot discovered the problem while deep inside Iranian airspace and promptly alerted command. Since no aerial refueling tanker was initially assigned to the mission, Israeli forces swiftly dispatched one to meet the fighter mid-flight.
A contingency plan was also prepared: if the tanker failed to reach the aircraft in time, the pilot would be instructed to cross the border into a neighboring country (unnamed in reports) for an emergency landing, avoiding the risks associated with landing inside Iran.
Fortunately, the refueling plane arrived on time, allowing the F-15 to be refueled in flight and continue its mission without interruption.
Before the June 13 launch of Israel’s surprise strikes that ignited the conflict, Israeli Air Force Commander Tomer Bar had estimated that up to 10 jets might be lost within the initial 72 hours. However, no Israeli aircraft were lost, despite Iranian state media falsely claiming to have shot down planes and captured a pilot.
Israel’s wide-ranging operation targeted Iranian military leaders, nuclear scientists, uranium enrichment facilities, and ballistic missile programs, aiming to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons — a claim Iran denies.
In response, Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel, resulting in dozens of fatalities, thousands of injuries, extensive damage to homes and institutions, and the displacement of thousands of Israelis.
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