Military Refuses To Confirm Report Of Downing... Or Deny It

A report that first surfaced on on Wired.com's "Danger Room" last week alleges an Iranian drone flying over Iraq was shot down by an American fighter jet in February.

When asked for confirmation of the report, the US Air Force Central Command demurred, referring inquiries about the incident to the Multi-National Force–Iraq, which in turn refused to comment one way or the other.

"We have nothing for you on that," spokespersons from both the MNFI and the Pentagon said.

Iran’s deputy defense minister announced just last month the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) having a range of more than 600 miles -- theoretically putting every US installation in Iraq at risk. US officials responded by saying Iran has a tendency to exaggerate its weapons systems capabilities.

The Washington Times reported UAVs have been under development in Iran since the early 1990s, including "suicide drones" that could be used as guided missiles in an offensive against both land- and sea-based targets.

FMI: www.defenselink.mil