What Caused The Deadly U.S. Air Force Tanker Crash In Iraq?

Four U.S. service members were killed after a refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during ongoing military operations tied to the conflict with Iran. According to reporting by CNN, the aircraft involved was a KC-135 Stratotanker operated by the United States Air Force.

United States Central Command said the crash occurred Thursday during an operation known as Operation Epic Fury. The military confirmed the incident was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire. Rescue teams are continuing efforts to locate two additional personnel who were on board.

US military confirms 4 crew killed after Air Force refueling plane crashed in Iraq. https://t.co/SowUCvzrBH pic.twitter.com/1sawfM0Vlo

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) March 13, 2026

An Iran-aligned militia group, Islamic Resistance of Iraq, claimed it shot down the aircraft, but provided no evidence for the claim.

Officials said another tanker aircraft involved in the incident landed safely. The KC-135 is widely used by the U.S. military to refuel fighter jets midair during combat operations.

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