Tehran F-4 intercept — sub-objects launched, systems disabled

On the night of September 18-19, 1976, the Imperial Iranian Air Force scrambled two F-4 Phantom fighters in response to reports of a luminous object over northern Tehran. The first F-4 lost all instruments and communications when approaching within 45 km of the object and aborted. A second F-4 radar detected an echo the size of a Boeing 707 with rapidly color-cycling lights. When the pilot attempted to fire a Sidewinder missile at a sub-object that approached rapidly, his fire control and communications became inoperable. A sub-object descended to the ground and illuminated a 2-3 km area. The DIA report concluded it was 'an outstanding report... a classic which meets all the criteria necessary for a valid study of the UFO phenomenon.'

“The pilot tried to shoot a Sidewinder missile at the object, but at the same instant his fire control console and his means of communication (radio and intercom) became inoperable... A short time afterwards, an object again exited the UFO and rapidly headed straight down to the ground.”

This case is referenced in and corroborated by a DIA report obtained via FOIA. Electromagnetic effects on aircraft systems are documented for both F-4s and a civilian aircraft. Source is COMETA 1999 analytical report. Rated highly credible by DIA assessment note.