U.S. tanker jet crash kills six in Iraq
KC-135 down during mission as probe begins
A U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during Operation Epic Fury, U.S. Central Command said, while a second aircraft involved in the mission landed safely. The command said the incident occurred in friendly airspace and was not believed to be the result of hostile or friendly fire.
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.
Officials said an investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the crash; accident teams will analyze flight data recorders, mechanical systems and environmental conditions once the rescue phase permits. Early statements indicate the crash occurred during routine operations, but military authorities cautioned that all possible factors, including technical failure and operational conditions, are being examined.
The incident unfolded amid a substantial U.S. air presence in the Middle East supporting operations against Iran. U.S. and allied strikes in the region have increased operational tempo and logistical demands on personnel and aircraft, officials say. Since the start of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, several U.S. service members have been killed and hundreds wounded, highlighting risks faced by forces deployed to the theater.
Military spokespeople emphasized that protecting personnel remains the top priority. Search-and-rescue teams focused on locating survivors and ensuring the safety of crew and responders, while medical teams were placed on standby to treat any injured personnel. Security forces established a perimeter around the crash site to prevent unauthorized access and to support recovery operations.
Details on the number of crew aboard the KC-135 and their condition were not immediately released; the second aircraft involved was reported to have landed without incident. U.S. Central Command said it would provide further updates as rescue efforts conclude and investigators gather more information.
Investigations into military aircraft accidents typically include review of maintenance records, pilot actions, weather conditions and any operational constraints.
