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Horrific Tragedy: 4 US Crew Members Killed in KC-135 Stratotanker Crash Over Iraq

Four US service members were killed after a KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq during Operation Epic Fury. Rescue operations for two others are ongoing.

KC-135 refueler

The U.S. military reported that tragically, four crew members killed in the crash of a KC-135 Stratotanker over western Iraq, with rescue operations ongoing for two additional service members.

This brings the total U.S. service member deaths in the ongoing "Ramadan War" (Operation Epic Fury) to at least 11, with around 140 wounded since February 28.

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Incident Details

The KC-135, a refueling tanker supporting operations against Iran, crashed on March 12 around 2:00 PM ET (7:00 PM GMT) after an apparent mid-air collision with another KC-135 during a routine mission.

CENTCOM emphasized it was not due to hostile or friendly fire, occurring in friendly airspace.

The surviving aircraft (tail number 63-8017) landed safely at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel with substantial damage to its vertical stabilizer.

Aircraft (tail number 63-8017) landed safely at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel
Aircraft (tail number 63-8017) landed safely at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel

Rescue efforts, involving U.S. and allied forces, continue for the remaining two, with no updates on their condition as of midday IST.

Initial reports on March 12 indicated no casualties, but CENTCOM updated the toll overnight.

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias, claimed they shot down the plane with an "appropriate weapon," contradicting U.S. statements.

An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

This is the fourth U.S. aircraft lost in the conflict, following three F-15E Strike Eagles downed by friendly Kuwaiti fire last week (with all crew surviving).

The KC-135, operated by the 940th Air Refueling Wing's 314th Air Refueling Squadron, plays a vital role in extending fighter ranges.

President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth have warned of potential further losses amid intensified operations.

Updates are expected as recovery efforts progress.
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