US Air Force Refueling Tanker Crashes in Western Iraq During "Operation Epic Fury"

A US KC-135 refueling jet has crashed in western Iraq during Operation Epic Fury. CENTCOM confirms rescue efforts are ongoing as the war with Iran enters its second week.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 13, 2026, 4:45 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from POLITICO

Rescue Operations Underway Following Stratotanker Crash

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the crash of a Boeing KC-135 refueling aircraft in western Iraq on Thursday evening. The aircraft was participating in "Operation Epic Fury," the ongoing military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran. While the fate of the crew remains officially unconfirmed, CENTCOM stated that intensive rescue efforts are currently active at the crash site. A second aircraft involved in the mission reportedly landed safely at a nearby base following the incident.

CENTCOM Rules Out Hostile Action

Initial assessments from military command indicate that the crash was not the result of enemy or friendly fire. The incident occurred within "friendly airspace," suggesting a technical failure or pilot error rather than kinetic intervention from Iranian forces or regional militias. This distinction is critical as the U.S. seeks to maintain air superiority in the region during the second week of active hostilities. The Pentagon has yet to release a detailed manifest regarding the number of personnel on board the refueling jet.

Rising Aviation Losses in the Middle East Conflict

This crash marks the fourth major aviation loss for U.S. forces since the outbreak of the war. During the initial phase of the conflict, three U.S. fighter jets were accidentally downed by Kuwaiti air defenses. While all six crew members in those previous incidents survived via ejection, the loss of a large refueling platform like the KC-135 presents a significant logistical challenge. Refueling tankers are essential for maintaining the long-duration sorties required to strike targets deep within Iranian territory.