Iranian Drone Downs 1 U.S. Apache in Hormuz, Triggering First Sea-Drone Crew Rescue
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 17
Iranian Drone Downs 1 U.S. Apache in Hormuz, Triggering First Sea-Drone Crew Rescue
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 17
Summary
June 8 fighting in the Strait of Hormuz forced a U.S. Army AH-64 Apache to ditch after an Iranian drone lodged in the cockpit; both crew members survived and were recovered by a 24-foot unmanned Navy rescue boat.
The rescue marked the first time a U.S. military sea drone saved personnel, with President Donald Trump saying the embedded drone did not explode even though the helicopter caught fire.
U.S. forces are still using Apaches to help reopen the strait under a naval blockade, and Central Command says lanes are available to vessels not violating it.
Shipping groups remain wary despite a U.S.-Iran memorandum and ceasefire, citing risks from rogue drones, missiles and Iranian fast boats.
The incident underscores why Apaches remain central to Hormuz patrols: they recently helped sink six Iranian small boats and are increasingly used as drone killers.