WASHINGTON / BAGHDAD — All six crew members aboard a United States military refueling aircraft have been confirmed dead after their plane crashed in western Iraq during an operational mission, according to the US military.
The aircraft, a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, went down on March 12, 2026, while supporting American operations in the Middle East.
Officials from the United States Central Command said the crash occurred in western Iraq and involved two refueling aircraft operating in the same area.
Preliminary reports indicate that an incident occurred between the two aircraft during the mission, causing one tanker to crash while the other managed to land safely.
Authorities emphasized that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire, though investigations into the exact cause are ongoing.
The KC-135 is a long-serving aerial refueling aircraft used to extend the range of fighter jets and bombers during combat operations.
The aircraft involved in the crash was taking part in missions connected to the escalating regional conflict involving the United States and Iran.
The identities of the six service members have not yet been released, with military officials saying the names will be made public after their families are notified.
US defense officials described the crew members as having died in the line of duty while supporting ongoing operations in the region.
The incident underscores the risks faced by military personnel even during support missions such as aerial refueling.
The crash also comes amid heightened tensions and expanded military operations across the Middle East, where thousands of US troops remain deployed as part of ongoing security and combat missions.
Authorities say a full investigation is underway to determine what led to the fatal crash.
