Mitchell Zuckoff

Dude 44 : Iran. Shootdown. Search. Rescue. The True Story. Mitchell Zuckoff

Soon to be a Michael Bay movie from UniversalFrom the #1 New York Times bestselling author of 13 Hours comes the never-before-told true story of a downed fighter jet, two hunted airmen, and the daring 48-hour mission that tested U.S. rescue teams, special forces, intelligence operatives, and the American military mettle. To leave no one behind, the United States spared nothing and sent everything.

On Good Friday in April 2026, an F-15E Strike Eagle with the call sign DUDE 44 is shot down by a surface-to-air missile over Iran's Zagros Mountains. In the hours that follow, a death-defying daytime rescue mission under enemy fire plucks the pilot to safety. His backseat weapon systems officer, DUDE 44 Bravo, vanishes into hostile terrain as Iranian media offers a bounty for his capture.

He’s injured, his emergency radio is on the fritz, and he’s low on food and water. In a race against time, the United States launches a massive rescue effort involving an armada of warplanes, special operations forces on the ground, CIA officers, and a high-risk deception campaign designed to outmaneuver Iranian search parties. A shocking malfunction forces a second cavalry to come save the first.

An inspiring true story of bravery behind enemy lines, Dude 44 recounts the minute-by-minute narrative of how America did whatever was necessary to bring two brave airmen home. A Gripping True Story: Discover the never-before-told account of a downed fighter jet, two stranded airmen, and the extraordinary 48-hour rescue mission that unfolded deep inside hostile territory. From a #1 New York Times Bestselling Author: Mitchell Zuckoff, acclaimed author of 13 Hours, brings his signature storytelling and meticulous reporting to one of the most dramatic military rescue operations in recent history.

Soon To Be A Major Motion Picture: Experience the incredible true story that inspired the upcoming Michael Bay film from Universal. A Race Against Time: As search teams close in and survival odds dwindle, U.S. forces launch a massive effort to locate and recover a missing airman before it's too late.

Unprecedented Pentagon Access: Based on extensive research and insider access from many players involved, this definitive account reveals the strategy, sacrifice, and split-second decisions behind a high-stakes mission. A Minute-by-Minute Rescue Thriller: Follow every twist of the operation as special forces, intelligence officers, and military leaders coordinate an audacious mission under extreme pressure. Courage Behind Enemy Lines: Witness the resilience of a wounded airman fighting to survive while evading capture in hostile terrain.

An Inside Look At Modern Warfare: Explore the sophisticated combination of airpower, intelligence gathering, special operations, and deception tactics used to bring an American warrior home. A Powerful Tribute To Service And Sacrifice: An inspiring testament to the military's enduring commitment to its core promise: leave no one behind.