(AP) Tehran – Iran last week identified the drone as the RQ-170 Sentinel and said it was captured over the country’s east. The nearly intact drone was displayed on state TV and flaunted as a victory for Iran in a complicated intelligence and technological battle with the U.S.
“Their plane invaded Iran and Iranian forces reacted powerfully,” said Defense Minister Gen. Ahmad Vahidi “Now, instead of offering an apology to the Iranian nation, they impudently ask for the return of the plane.”
U.S. officials say the unmanned aircraft malfunctioned and was not brought down by Iran. President Barack Obama said Monday the U.S. wants the top-secret aircraft back and has delivered a formal request for the return of the surveillance drone, though it isn’t hopeful that Iran will comply.