US F-16 Declares Mid-Air Emergency, Sends ‘7700’ Distress Code Over Iran-Iraq Region

A US Air Force F-16CJ Fighting Falcon reportedly triggered an in-flight emergency while flying out of Iran–Iraq airspace, according to flight tracking updates shared by open-source intelligence accounts.

The aircraft reportedly squawked 7700, a universal transponder code used by pilots to signal a general emergency. This code is typically used in situations involving technical failure, medical issues, or other serious onboard problems that require immediate attention.

The incident comes at a time of heightened tension following reports earlier today involving a US F-15 fighter jet. According to emerging details, one American pilot was rescued after an incident in the region, while efforts are still ongoing to locate another pilot.

Iranian media

had also issued public messages urging civilians not to harm any captured pilot, indicating the sensitivity of the situation.

Additionally, Iranian state-linked outlets even announced a monetary reward for information on the missing pilot.

A search operation by US military has also been launched to locate two US crew members, according to a report by Axios News.

If confirmed, this would be the first instance of a US fighter jet being brought down since the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran began on February 28.