Iran has claimed responsibility for downing a second US F-35 fighter jet, with conflicting reports regarding the fate of the pilot. Iranian state media reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) shot down the aircraft over central Iran, stating that the pilot likely did not survive due to a significant explosion upon impact. Some reports suggest the pilot may have been captured, while others indicate he could not eject in time. The incident has not yet elicited an official response from the United States. This follows a previous claim by Iran on March 19, when it stated it became the first nation to strike a US F-35 Lightning II. The IRGC has emphasized its capability to intercept advanced US military aircraft, claiming to have downed over 125 US-Israeli drones in recent operations.