March 12, 2026 — Western Iraq — A US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq occurred around 2 p.m. ET when a KC-135 refueling aircraft went down during a mission supporting Operation Epic Fury against Iran, killing four of six crew members, US Central Command reported.
The US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq took place in friendly airspace and involved a second KC-135 that landed safely. It was not caused by hostile or friendly fire, CENTCOM stated in press releases issued March 12 and 13.
“This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire. More information will be made available as the situation develops.”
Crew Status
Of the six crew aboard the crashed aircraft, four were confirmed deceased as of March 13, with identities withheld pending next-of-kin notification, per CENTCOM. Rescue operations continue for the two missing crew members, according to Stars and Stripes and other outlets.
Investigation and Claims
An investigation into the US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq is underway to determine the cause. Iran’s military claimed on state television that a pro-Iranian militia struck the plane with a missile, a claim unconfirmed by US officials, as reported by BBC News.
“Neither hostile nor friendly fire were involved in the downing of the aircraft,” Centcom said.
Conflict Context
The US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq marks the fourth US aircraft loss in the US-Iran conflict, which began about two weeks ago and involves US and Israeli operations, according to AP News. The KC-135, a Boeing tanker, supports combat aircraft by extending their range.
Prior reports from Reuters noted initial rescue efforts with unknown crew status. Social media posts echoed details but included unverified claims of no survivors.
