All Crew Members of U.S. KC-135 Loss in Iraq Confirmed Deceased

USCENTCOM

TAMPA, Fla. – All six crew members aboard a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft that went down in western Iraq are now confirmed deceased. The aircraft was lost while flying over friendly airspace March 12 during Operation Epic Fury.

The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.

The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.

USCENTCOM

TAMPA, Fla. – At approximately 2 pm ET on March 12, a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft went down in western Iraq. Four of six crew members on board the aircraft have been confirmed deceased as rescue efforts continue.

The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire. 

The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker supporting Operation Epic Fury against Iran crashed in western Iraq after a refueling incident involving two aircraft March 12, U.S. Central Command announced.

“The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing,” CENTCOM said in a statement. “Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the second landed safely. This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.”

It is unclear if there are casualties. U.S. officials told Air & Space Forces Magazine that rescue efforts were ongoing and the situation was still unclear.

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