An Iranian F-4E tried to intercept U.S. MQ-1 Predator drone

An Iranian warplane F-4 Phantom II tried earlier this week to intercept a U.S. drone but failed, the U.S. Defense Department said on Thursday, March 14, 2013.

In a written statement, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said that the Iranian jet tried to intercept an unarmed MQ-1 Predator remotely-piloted aircraft over "international waters" on March 12, but the attempt was unsuccessful.

Little said that the unmanned aircraft was conducting a " routine classified surveillance flight" over international waters in the Gulf, when Iran sent an F-4 Phantom 2 jet to intercept it.

"The closest point of approach between these aircraft was approximately 16 miles," Little added.

Two U.S. military aircraft were escorting the Predator, and the Iranian plane broke off pursuit after a verbal warning.

"All U.S. aircraft remained over international waters at all times," Little stated.

According to the Pentagon, Iranian aircraft fired on a U.S. drone operating over the Arabian Sea last November. The Iranian aircraft was said to have fired two missiles at the drone and missed.


Source: (airrecognition.com) News - 15 March 2013

Photo: The Iranian Air Force F-4E Phantom II Fighter Ground Bomber Aircraft (Photo by aerospacetalk.ir)


(15.03.2013)