March 12, 2026 — Western Iraq — A US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed during Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led operation supporting strikes against Iran, with five to six crew members aboard and their status unknown as rescue operations continue.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. The incident involved two KC-135 aircraft, one of which landed safely at a nearby base, amid refueling operations.
Incident Details
The US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq took place in an isolated desert area of western Iraq. Initial reports point to a possible mid-air collision or mechanical failure, according to The New York Times and Air & Space Forces Magazine. The KC-135, a Boeing refueling aircraft, lacks ejection seats, complicating survival prospects.
Rescue teams are working in the remote location, with no confirmed casualties as of March 13, 2026. Associated Press reported at least five crew members were on board.
Official Statements
CENTCOM stated the US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq was “not caused by hostile or friendly fire,” as echoed in posts from verified accounts like @Conflict_Radar.
“KC-135 Stratotanker was lost in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury… not caused by hostile or friendly fire.”
— CENTCOM via Breaking Defense
Conflicting Claims
Iranian state media Press TV claimed Iraqi resistance groups shot down the plane, attributing it to the IRGC. U.S. officials and OSINT analysts, including @RedIntelPanda, have ruled this out, stating “zero evidence” for a shoot-down.
Broader Context
The US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq has dominated U.S. news feeds, trending with terms like “plane crash” and military aviation topics. Updates from CBS and aviation accounts like @FixorFkit note ongoing crew status checks. For related coverage, see Aeronautics Online sitemap.
CENTCOM continues to monitor and provide updates on the US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crash in Iraq.
