Video captures US F-15 trying to chase Iran's drone over Iraqi airspace
The footage, widely shared by pro-Iran channels, appears to capture an aerial chase followed by a large explosion and thick smoke rising from the ground
A video circulating on social media allegedly shows a F-15 Eagle pursuing suspected Iranian Shahed-136 drone drones over Iraqi airspace.
The footage, widely shared by pro-Iran channels, appears to capture an aerial chase followed by a large explosion and thick smoke rising from the ground.
Some accounts on X have claimed that the American fighter jet was unable to intercept at least two of the relatively low-cost drones, suggesting a potential escalation in tensions. However, there has been no official confirmation from the US or its allies regarding the authenticity of the video or the claims.
The incident is believed to be linked to a reported drone attack on an oil facility in Erbil, located in Iraq’s Kurdistan region.
The targeted site, a plant associated with Castrol and operated by the Sardar Group, was reportedly hit by multiple drones, triggering a major fire and sending thick black smoke into the sky.
The attack comes amid rising tensions in the region. Iran’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Seyed Ali Mousavi, recently indicated that Tehran is considering possible strikes on British military bases.
Since the outbreak of conflict following US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, Iraq has found itself caught between competing pressures from the United States and Iran. Armed groups linked to Iran, including factions within the Popular Mobilisation Forces, have claimed attacks on US-linked targets, while also facing retaliatory airstrikes.
At the same time, Iran has continued operations against Kurdish opposition groups in northern Iraq, further complicating the already volatile regional situation.
🇺🇸 United States $80M fighter jet vs 🇮🇷 Iran’s cheap drone—and the drone still wins.
Iranian Shahed evades US F-15 over 🇮🇶 Iraq, strikes near Castrol facility in Erbil.
Airpower dominance is collapsing into asymmetry. pic.twitter.com/uGbQxH5bOJ
— Commentary IRGC (@IRGCIntel) April 2, 2026
