March 12, 2026 — Western Iraq U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the crash of a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft during Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran, involving two aircraft in friendly airspace. One aircraft crashed while the second landed safely, with rescue efforts ongoing for the crew of at least five members and no confirmed fatalities.
The U.S. Military KC-135 Stratotanker Crash in Iraq occurred without hostile or friendly fire, according to CENTCOM.
U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft. The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing. 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.
CENTCOM requested patience as more details emerge for service members’ families.
Incident Details
The Aviation Safety Network reported a mid-air collision between two KC-135R Stratotankers, with Boeing KC-135R 63-8017 sustaining tail fin damage but landing safely at Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel. The other aircraft crashed in western Iraq. Operated by the U.S. Air Force’s 940th Air Refueling Wing/314th Air Refueling Squadron, the KC-135 typically carries a crew of three but had at least five aboard, per Stars and Stripes citing officials.
Militant Claims
Iran-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility, stating it downed the aircraft “with the appropriate weapon.” CENTCOM’s denial attributes the U.S. Military KC-135 Stratotanker Crash in Iraq to non-combat causes, possibly during a refueling attempt.
Aircraft Background
The KC-135, a Boeing derivative of the 707 airliner, entered service over 60 years ago and has received upgrades, according to PBS NewsHour. The Air Force operates 376 such tankers across active duty, Guard, and Reserve units.
This marks the second U.S. aviation mishap that day amid escalating tensions, following prior losses like F-15E incidents. Recovery operations continue as of March 13.
