US F-35 stealth jet hit: How Iran’s infrared systems spooked the ‘ghost of the skies’

2026-03-20 - 11:19

An F-35 stealth fighter was reportedly damaged and forced to land after being hit by Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran. Analysts suggest Iran's infrared-guided air defense systems, which track heat signatures rather than radar, may have played a role in targeting the advanced aircraft.