# MANPADS

Shadows of Desert One: The Tactical Brilliance and Strategic Cost of America’s Boldest Rescue in Iran

A 50-hour joint U.S.-Israeli operation successfully rescued two F-15E crew members downed in Iran, but only after nearly failing due to equipment mishaps and intense local resistance. The mission resulted in the loss of several American aircraft and highlighted the persistent threat of mobile Iranian air defenses despite weeks of sustained bombardment.