Six U.S. Airmen Killed After KC-135 Refueling Aircraft Crashes in Iraq

13/03/2026

Six U.S. Airmen Killed After KC-135 Refueling Aircraft Crashes in Iraq

TAMPA, Fla.: All six crew members aboard a U.S. KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq have been confirmed dead, according to the United States Air Force.

The aircraft went down on March 12 while flying over friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, the Air Force said in a statement.

Officials added that the circumstances surrounding the crash are currently under investigation. However, preliminary information indicates that the loss of the aircraft was not the result of hostile or friendly fire.

The identities of the service members have not yet been released. Authorities said their names will be made public 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.

The incident marks a tragic loss for the Air Force as investigations continue into what caused the crash.