Ex-UN inspector explains loss of US F-35 in Iran conflict

A former UN weapons inspector has outlined what he described as the reason behind the reported loss of a US F-35 fighter jet during the conflict with Iran.

Speaking to TASS, Scott Ritter said the United States has run out of long-range strike weapons, forcing its aircraft to operate closer to Iranian territory in order to carry out bombing missions.

According to Ritter, this shift has increased vulnerability to Iranian air defences. “In recent days, we have seen that the Iranians are already beginning to hit our aircraft with air defence systems and have even, for the first time in history, shot down an F-35,” he said.

Ritter added that while the United States has achieved some success during the war, Iran’s defence industry has not been destroyed. He argued that key facilities have been relocated and concealed, allowing them to continue operating despite ongoing strikes.

By Tamilla Hasanova