US Air Force Refueling Plane Crashes In Iraq, Five Crew Members On Board
A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker, a refueling aircraft, crashed in western Iraq on Thursday, marking the fourth known aircraft loss in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The incident, which involved a second U.S. tanker, occurred during Operation Epic Fury, a U.S. military operation against Iran. The military confirmed that the crash was not the result of hostile or friendly fire.
At least five crew members were aboard the tanker, according to a U.S. official who spoke to CNN. The military did not specify the condition of the crew members, but U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that rescue efforts were immediately underway. The second tanker involved in the incident managed to land safely.
“The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury. Two aircraft were involved, with one going down in western Iraq. The second landed safely. This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” CENTCOM said in a statement. The release did not provide additional details but assured the public that further information would be shared as it became available, and the military emphasized that efforts were focused on providing clarity for the families of the service members involved.
Western Iraq, a largely sparsely populated desert region, has seen escalating tensions with the involvement of pro-Iran militias targeting U.S. and Western forces. However, these attacks are primarily conducted by drones in the northern part of the country, far from the crash site.
The KC-135 Stratotanker, a critical component of U.S. Air Force operations, serves as an airborne refueling platform, extending the range of fighter jets and other aircraft in combat zones. A typical KC-135 crew includes a pilot, copilot, and boom operator, with some missions requiring additional personnel such as navigators. The planes are capable of carrying cargo and medical patients in addition to their refueling capabilities.
The specific mission of the aircraft involved in Thursday’s incident remains undisclosed, and the Air Force has not clarified whether it was related to combat operations or logistical support. The KC-135, based on the Boeing 707 airliner, has been a cornerstone of the Air Force’s refueling capabilities since its introduction in the 1950s, with the most recent models being delivered in 1965. The tanker fleet has undergone numerous upgrades over the years, including new engines.
This marks the fourth known aircraft loss during the war with Iran. Last week, three F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were shot down in a mistaken friendly fire incident over Kuwait, though all six crew members were able to eject safely.
As the situation unfolds, U.S. officials are continuing to monitor developments and work toward supporting the personnel affected by the crash. Further updates are expected to be released as investigations proceed.
