6 Iranian F-4 Phantoms Ambush a US F-35 – What Happened Next Stunned Tehran

Stealth Detection Gives F-35 Early Advantage

The F-35 shoots down Iranian F-4 Phantom aircraft after detecting the formation long before engagement. The stealth fighter reportedly identified the Iranian jets at roughly 140 nautical miles away.

The F-35 pilot, using the call sign Corsair 11, tracked all six aircraft using low-probability-of-intercept radar mode. As a result, the stealth aircraft remained electronically hidden.

The Iranian pilots maintained radar silence during their approach. They relied on inertial navigation systems and ground guidance for positioning.

However, the F-35 pilot had already prepared a counter-maneuver. The stealth aircraft adjusted course and prepared its weapons while remaining undetected.