Image source: vestnik-rm.ru
An F-15 fighter jet belonging to the Saudi Arabian Air Force was shot down by air defense systems of the "Ansar Allah" (Houthi) government's armed forces.
It happened on Tuesday in the sky over the Yemeni province of Marib. The released video shows the launch of a rocket of an unknown type and a bright flash in the sky. Then the footage shot through a thermal imaging camera is shown - it is clear that the plane received a direct hit.
It is not yet known whether the pilots were able to eject, at least it is not shown on the video. The pilots' seats that had fallen to the ground were also not shown.
Image source: vestnik-rm.ru
It is possible that the pilots on board died immediately, but there is a possibility that they were able to escape. However, accurate information on them is not given so that the Saudis could launch a rescue operation, and the Houthis could attack the helicopters that took off and the drones and planes supporting them.
Image source: vestnik-rm.ru
Image source: vestnik-rm.ru
Meanwhile, the Houthis were able to reach the crash site of the F-15, and they did it quickly enough, since the wreckage of the aircraft was still burning on the ground, which almost completely collapsed. Nevertheless, it was possible to detect large tail fragments, which make it possible to accurately determine the type of aircraft.
Image source: vestnik-rm.ru
It is known that Saudi Arabia purchased at least 216 F-15 modifications of C/D, S, SA from the United States. According to various sources, 15-20 such aircraft have been lost since the beginning of the 80s. At least one fighter was lost in the confrontation with the Houthis, and several others were severely damaged, but were able to return to their bases.
Photo and video: Yuri Lyamin's VK page
