Social media discussions are focusing on which Iranian air defense system may have damaged the US fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. One of the suggested options is the «358» missile system, although this weapon is primarily designed to target drones, light aircraft, and helicopters.

Analysis of previously published footage shows that the «358» missiles do not demonstrate high interception speeds. At the same time, the munition seen in the footage involving the F-35 was moving significantly faster, which casts doubt on the use of this system.

More likely candidates include other Iranian surface-to-air systems. Among them is the upgraded «359» system, which is significantly larger than its predecessor. It can reach speeds of up to 1,000 km/h, engage targets at altitudes of up to 9 km, and has a range of up to 150 km.

Another possible system is the mobile AD-08 Majid air defense system, mounted on a light vehicle chassis. Its missiles can reach speeds of up to 2,450 km/h, with a range of about 8 km and an engagement altitude of up to 6 km.

A key feature of these systems is the use of passive electro-optical detection systems with thermal imaging channels, which do not reveal their position during operation.

At the same time, these missiles are believed to have relatively low-yield warheads. According to US Central Command, this may explain why the F-35 was damaged but not destroyed and was able to return to base.