March 12, 2026 — Western Iraq A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in a suspected mid-air collision with another tanker during Operation Epic Fury, killing four of the six crew members aboard, U.S. Central Command confirmed. The incident occurred in friendly airspace with no hostile or friendly fire involved, marking the U.S. Military KC-135 Refueling Plane Crash in Iraq as the fourth U.S. aircraft loss in the operation.
The downed aircraft, identified as tail number 63-8017 from the 940th Air Refueling Wing’s 314th Air Refueling Squadron, went down while the second KC-135 sustained damage to its upper tail fin but landed safely at Ben Gurion International Airport in Israel, according to aviation records.
Official Statements
U.S. Central Command stated in a release:
Neither hostile nor friendly fire were involved in the downing of the aircraft.
The command added:
The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing.
Further details were promised as the investigation progresses:
More information will be made available as the situation develops. We ask for continued patience to gather additional details and provide clarity for the families of service members.
AP News and BBC News reported four of the six crew members were killed, with identities withheld pending next-of-kin notifications.
Context and Prior Losses
The U.S. Military KC-135 Refueling Plane Crash in Iraq supports U.S. operations against Iran, coming after three F-15E Strike Eagles downed by friendly fire over Kuwait last week, where crews ejected safely. CENTCOM oversees the region, where pro-Iran militias operate.
The KC-135, based on the Boeing 707 design, typically carries a pilot, co-pilot, boom operator, and additional crew.
Social Media Reaction
The U.S. Military KC-135 Refueling Plane Crash in Iraq generated significant discussion on X, with posts confirming CENTCOM details and dismissing hostile fire claims. Accounts like @RudawEnglish shared the official statement, while others noted the safe landing in Israel.
Speculation from Iranian-linked accounts alleging shoot-downs lacked evidence, per official reports.
This U.S. Military KC-135 Refueling Plane Crash in Iraq underscores ongoing risks in the operation, with broader U.S.-Iran tensions. Updates on the remaining crew and investigation are awaited.
