US KC‑135 refueling aircraft lost in Western Iraq; rescue ongoing

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that a KC‑135 Stratotanker, an aerial refueling aircraft, was lost in western Iraq during the ongoing Operation Epic Fury. The incident occurred within airspace the coalition designates as “friendly,” and officials say there is no evidence of hostile or friendly-fire involvement. CENTCOM announced the loss on Thursday.

“U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft,” CENTCOM said. “The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the second landed safely. This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.”

More information will be made available as the situation develops. “We ask for continued patience to gather additional details and provide clarity for the families of service members,” CENTCOM added.

This would be the fourth U.S. military aircraft lost during Operation Epic Fury. Three F-15Es were shot down in a bizarre friendly fire incident earlier.