In June 2017, a United States Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet in the skies near Tabgah in Syria. The incident marked the first time since 1999 that the US military had taken down a manned aircraft. The Su-22 had reportedly attacked Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces positions in the town of Ja’Din before being targeted by the US fighter jet.
The F/A-18E Super Hornet is the primary fighter jet used by the US Navy. The aircraft is equipped with a range of sophisticated weapons systems, including AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, which were used to shoot down the Syrian Su-22. The F/A-18E is a versatile and highly maneuverable aircraft that is capable of performing a range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance.
The shootdown of the Syrian Su-22 by the US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet marked a significant escalation of tensions between the US and Syrian governments. The incident was widely condemned by the Syrian government and its allies, including Russia and Iran. The US government defended the action as a necessary measure to protect its troops and allies on the ground in Syria.
Background of the Incident
On June 18, 2017, a United States Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabqah, Syria. The incident occurred during the Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011 and has been ongoing since.
At the time of the incident, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a coalition of Kurdish and Arab fighters backed by the U.S., were engaged in a battle with ISIS in Raqqa, Syria. The Syrian Su-22 was reportedly attacking SDF positions near Tabqah, which is about 25 miles west of Raqqa.
The U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet, piloted by Lieutenant Commander Michael Tremel, was part of a U.S. aircraft carrier strike group operating in the eastern Mediterranean. According to U.S. officials, the Syrian Su-22 had ignored warnings to stop its attack and was shot down in accordance with the U.S. military’s rules of engagement.
The incident marked the first time a U.S. aircraft had shot down a manned enemy aircraft in air-to-air combat since the Kosovo War in 1999. The Syrian government condemned the incident as a “flagrant aggression” and accused the U.S. of supporting terrorism. The U.S. defended its actions as a necessary measure to protect its forces and allies in the region.
The incident was just one of many in the ongoing Syrian Civil War, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions more. The U.S. has been involved in the conflict since 2014, providing support to the SDF and conducting airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria and Iraq.
The Engagement
Initial Contact
On June 18, 2023, a US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet engaged a Syrian Su-22 Fitter attack jet near Tabgah, Syria. The engagement began when the Syrian jet dropped bombs near Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters, who were being supported by US troops.
The F/A-18E Super Hornet, piloted by Navy Lt. Cmdr. Michael Tremel, was part of a US-led coalition force conducting airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria. The Super Hornet was armed with AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.
The Syrian Su-22 Fitter, a Soviet-era attack jet, was armed with bombs and was attempting to attack SDF fighters on the ground.
The Shoot Down
In response to the Syrian Su-22’s attack, the F/A-18E Super Hornet fired an AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile, which successfully hit and destroyed the Syrian jet. The pilot of the Syrian jet ejected but was captured by SDF fighters.
The engagement marked the first air-to-air kill by a US aircraft since 1999.
Aftermath
The shooting down of the Syrian Su-22 Fitter was widely reported and sparked international controversy. Russia, which supports the Syrian government, condemned the US-led coalition’s actions and suspended the use of a military hotline with the US.
The US defended its actions, stating that it was acting in self-defense and protecting its troops and allies on the ground.
Video footage of the engagement was released by the US Department of Defense, which showed the Syrian jet being hit by the AIM-120 AMRAAM missile and crashing to the ground.
The engagement highlighted the ongoing conflict in Syria and the complex nature of the US-led coalition’s involvement in the region.
Involvement of Other Forces
The incident involving the US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet shooting down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah on June 18, 2017, had significant implications for the involvement of other forces in the region.
The US military, which leads the coalition against ISIS, stated that the Syrian jet was shot down in self-defense after it had dropped bombs near US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces. The incident marked the first time that a US pilot had shot down a manned aircraft since 1999.
The Russian Defense Ministry condemned the US action, stating that it would treat all coalition aircraft west of the Euphrates River as targets. Russian counterparts also suspended the deconfliction channel between the US and Russian militaries in Syria, which was established to prevent accidental clashes.
Iran, a key ally of the Syrian government, also condemned the US action and accused the US of supporting terrorism in the region. Turkey, another major player in the Syrian conflict, expressed concern over the escalation of tensions and called for restraint.
The US Air Force, which operates the F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters, also increased its patrols in the region following the incident. US Central Command stated that it would continue to operate in accordance with the rules of engagement and international law.
In summary, the involvement of other forces in the region was significant following the shooting down of the Syrian Su-22 fighter jet by the US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet. The incident led to increased tensions and the suspension of the deconfliction channel between the US and Russian militaries in Syria.
Response from the Pentagon
The Pentagon has confirmed that a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah on Sunday. The Pentagon stated that the Syrian fighter jet had dropped bombs near US-backed forces fighting against the Islamic State. The Pentagon also added that the US-led coalition forces did not seek to escalate the situation but acted in self-defense.
The Pentagon’s response to the incident was cautious, emphasizing the need to de-escalate the situation. The Pentagon spokesperson stated that the US does not seek conflict with the Syrian regime but will take necessary measures to protect coalition forces and their partners. The spokesperson also urged all parties to focus on the defeat of ISIS and work towards a political solution to the conflict in Syria.
The Pentagon’s response was based on a clear understanding of the situation on the ground and the need to act in self-defense. The US-led coalition forces have been providing air support to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in their fight against ISIS in Syria. The SDF is a coalition of Kurdish and Arab fighters who have been instrumental in the fight against ISIS in Syria.
In conclusion, the Pentagon’s response to the incident was confident and knowledgeable, emphasizing the need to de-escalate the situation and focus on the defeat of ISIS. The Pentagon’s caution in its response reflects the complex nature of the conflict in Syria and the need to avoid any actions that could lead to further escalation of the conflict.
Impact on the Syrian Conflict
The shootdown of a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet by a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet near Tabgah has significant implications for the Syrian conflict. The incident marks the first time a US aircraft has shot down a manned Syrian aircraft since 1999 and comes amid escalating tensions between the US and Syrian forces.
The Syrian government condemned the attack as a “flagrant aggression” and accused the US of supporting terrorism. President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has been fighting against rebel groups and ISIS militants in the Syrian Civil War since 2011. The incident is likely to further strain relations between the US and the Syrian government.
The shootdown occurred near Tabgah, which is located in close proximity to the Shayrat airfield. The US launched a missile strike against the airfield in April 2017 in response to a chemical weapons attack that the US blamed on the Syrian government. The incident also took place as US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces continue to battle ISIS militants in al-Raqqa.
The shootdown of the Syrian jet highlights the risks of military escalation in the region. The incident could potentially lead to a wider conflict between the US and Syrian forces, as well as Russian forces that are supporting the Syrian government. The US has stated that it will take all necessary measures to protect its forces in Syria, which could lead to further clashes with Syrian troops.
In conclusion, the shootdown of the Syrian Su-22 fighter jet by a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet near Tabgah has significant implications for the Syrian conflict. The incident could potentially lead to a wider conflict in the region, which would have serious consequences for the Syrian people and the wider Middle East.
Role of the F/A-18 Super Hornet
The F/A-18 Super Hornet is a highly capable attack aircraft used by the US Navy for various missions. It is a twin-engine, carrier-suitable, multi-role fighter aircraft that can perform air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The Super Hornet has proved to be an essential asset in the US Navy’s fleet, with its advanced technology and superior performance.
The Super Hornet is a part of several squadrons, including the Golden Warriors of VFA-87, the Tomcatters of VFA-31, and the Ragin’ Bulls of VFA-37. It is deployed on various aircraft carriers, including the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and the USS George W. Bush (CVN 77). The Super Hornet has a unique Modex system that helps identify the aircraft and its squadron.
The Super Hornet is a manned aircraft that can operate in conjunction with drones and other manned aircraft. It is equipped with advanced targeting pods that allow pilots to identify and engage targets with precision. The Super Hornet can also communicate with the E-3 Sentry, a surveillance aircraft that provides a real-time picture of the battlefield.
In the recent incident where a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah, the Super Hornet was used as a ground attack aircraft. The Super Hornet was part of a coalition partnered force that was supporting the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces. The Super Hornet engaged the Syrian Su-22 after it dropped bombs near the coalition partnered forces.
The Super Hornet’s role in this incident highlights its versatility and importance in the US Navy’s fleet. The Super Hornet’s advanced technology and superior performance make it an essential asset for the US Navy in various missions. Its capabilities have made it a favorite among pilots and earned it recognition from organizations such as the Tailhook Association.
Implications for International Relations
The recent incident where a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah has significant implications for international relations. The tension between the United States and Syria has been escalating for a while, but this incident could further exacerbate the situation. The incident could also impact the relations between the United States and other countries, including Russia and Iran.
The U.S. Central Command stated that the Syrian fighter jet was shot down in self-defense after it dropped bombs near the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces. However, Syria and Russia have condemned the incident and accused the United States of violating international law. The incident could lead to further tensions between the United States and Russia, as Russia is a major ally of Syria.
Iran has also been a key ally of Syria and has been providing military support to the Syrian government. The incident could lead to further tensions between the United States and Iran, which could have implications for the ongoing conflict in Syria.
The incident highlights the complex nature of the conflict in Syria and the involvement of various countries. The U.S. Central Command has stated that it will continue to take necessary measures to protect its forces and partners in Syria. However, it remains to be seen how the incident will impact the relations between the United States and its Russian counterparts.
In conclusion, the incident where a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah has significant implications for international relations. The incident could lead to further tensions between the United States and Syria, Russia, and Iran. The U.S. Central Command has stated that it will continue to take necessary measures to protect its forces and partners in Syria, but the incident highlights the complex nature of the conflict in Syria and the involvement of various countries.
Personal Accounts and Recognitions
The US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet made headlines in June 2017 when it shot down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah. The successful mission was carried out by pilot Lt. Cmdr. Michael Tremel, who was later recognized with the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery and skill.
According to personal accounts, Lt. Cmdr. Tremel and his wingman were on a routine patrol when they were alerted to the presence of the Syrian fighter jet. The Su-22 had just dropped bombs near Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighters who were being advised by US special operations forces. The F/A-18s were then directed to intercept the Su-22, which was flying at a low altitude.
Lt. Cmdr. Tremel made the decision to engage the Su-22 with an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile after the Syrian pilot ignored repeated warnings to leave the area. The missile hit its target, and the Su-22 crashed into the desert. The pilot ejected and was later rescued by Syrian forces.
The successful mission was praised by US Navy sailors and officials, who commended Lt. Cmdr. Tremel for his quick thinking and precise execution. The Distinguished Flying Cross, which is awarded to members of the US Armed Forces who distinguish themselves in aerial combat, was presented to Lt. Cmdr. Tremel in recognition of his exceptional courage and leadership.
Overall, the mission was a testament to the skill and dedication of the US Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet pilots and the importance of their role in protecting US interests around the world.
Media Coverage and Public Response
The US Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet shooting down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah has garnered significant media attention and public response. The incident has been covered by various news outlets, including Reuters and The War Zone.
According to a video released by the US Department of Defense, the Syrian Su-22 fighter jet was shot down after it had dropped bombs near US-backed forces in Syria. The incident has sparked debate among media outlets and the public regarding the legality and morality of the US military’s actions.
Some media outlets, such as The War Zone, have praised the US Navy’s actions, stating that it was a necessary response to protect US-backed forces in the area. Others, such as Reuters, have raised concerns about the potential escalation of the conflict and the possibility of retaliation from the Syrian government.
The incident has also sparked discussion among political leaders, with some supporting the US military’s actions and others condemning them. Demos have been held in various parts of the world, with some protesting against the US military’s involvement in the Syrian conflict.
Overall, the media coverage and public response to the US Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet shooting down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet near Tabgah have been mixed. While some have praised the US military’s actions, others have raised concerns about the potential consequences of the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of air-to-air kills involving the US Navy?
The US Navy has a long history of air-to-air combat, dating back to World War II. Since then, the Navy has been involved in numerous air-to-air engagements, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the War on Terror.
How many air-to-air kills has the F/A-18 Super Hornet achieved?
As of 2023, the F/A-18 Super Hornet has achieved four air-to-air kills, including the Syrian Su-22 fighter jet that was shot down near Tabgah.
What is the significance of the US shooting down a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet?
The shooting down of a Syrian Su-22 fighter jet by a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet marked the first time since 1999 that the US had shot down a manned aircraft. The incident also raised tensions between the US and Syria, as well as with Russia, which condemned the action.
What other aircraft have been involved in air-to-air combat?
Many different types of aircraft have been involved in air-to-air combat over the years, including fighter jets, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. Some of the most famous include the F-15 Eagle, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, and the F-14 Tomcat.
Has the US been involved in any air-to-air combat since Desert Storm?
Yes, the US has been involved in several air-to-air engagements since the Gulf War, including the War in Afghanistan and the War on Terror.
What is the current state of US-Russia relations following the 2023 incident?
The shooting down of the Syrian Su-22 fighter jet by a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet has strained relations between the US and Russia. While both sides have expressed a desire to avoid further escalation, tensions remain high.