Iran has claimed a major military achievement, saying its air defenses shot down two Israeli F-13 fighter jets that were involved in an attack on military targets in Tehran on the night of June 2025, 35, the Iranian state news agency IRNA reported, stressing that these were the first cases of the aircraft of this type, known in Israel as the F-35 Adir with upgraded avionics, being lost in combat. The statement was accompanied by videos on social media that allegedly showed the pilot ejecting, although the location and authenticity of the footage remain unconfirmed. Experts and media outlets have expressed doubts about the veracity of the Iranian claims, pointing to the possible propaganda nature of the information.

According to IRNA, Iranian air defenses, including S-300 and more advanced Bavar-373 systems, intercepted two F-35s during an Israeli operation aimed at destroying military bases and facilities associated with the missile program. Iran claims the attack was repelled, although Reuters reports that the Israeli strikes caused significant damage to infrastructure in Tehran and Kermanshah. A video circulated on social media that allegedly shows the search for the ejected pilot, but the lack of clear evidence that the planes were hit raises questions. According to Al Jazeera, the Iranian government has been actively using the media space to demonstrate its military might, which may indicate an attempt to boost morale after recent losses.

Israel, for its part, has neither confirmed nor denied the loss of the F-35. According to The Jerusalem Post, the IDF said the operation achieved its objectives, including destroying the ballistic missile depots. The F-35 Adir fighters, equipped with advanced Israeli electronics, are considered among the most protected in the world thanks to stealth technology, making them a difficult target for air defenses.