NBC News reported that the US F-15 fighter jet that crashed in Iranian airspace last month was likely shot down by a Chinese-made shoulder-fired missile. The incident occurred amid ongoing hostilities that began on February 28. According to the report, China may have provided Iran with stealth aircraft technology and long-range radar systems, enhancing Tehran’s ability to track advanced US aircraft. The crash prompted a 36-hour search and rescue mission, during which both crew members were eventually recovered.

US officials are still investigating how the jet was downed, marking the first time in decades that an American warplane was destroyed by enemy fire. The Pentagon confirmed that the pilot was rescued within seven hours, while the weapons systems officer was found two days later in Iran’s Zagros Mountains. The timing of China’s military support to Iran remains unclear.

Analysts suggest that if Iran indeed used Chinese weapons, it could further strain US-China relations. The report surfaced as President Donald Trump sought Beijing’s help to de-escalate the conflict with Iran ahead of a planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.