A United States Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq on Thursday, with at least five crew members aboard, the US military has confirmed. Officials maintain the incident was not caused by enemy action or friendly fire.
Akahi News gathered that the crash involved two American refuelling aircraft operating in the same airspace. One tanker went down in the desert expanse of western Iraq while the second landed safely, according to a statement from US Central Command.
“The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing,” the CENTCOM release stated, employing the Pentagon’s designation for US operations against Iranian interests. “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.”
Rescue Operations Underway as Families Await Clarity
A US official told international media that at least five service members were aboard the tanker that crashed. CENTCOM’s statement did not specify casualties, noting only that rescue efforts continue. The command requested patience as investigators gather information “to provide clarity for the families of service members.”
Western Iraq remains largely desert, sparsely populated and characterised by harsh terrain that complicates rescue operations. While US and coalition forces in Iraq have faced increasing drone attacks from pro-Iran militias since regional tensions escalated, those incidents have concentrated primarily in the country’s north.
The Workhorse of the Skies
The KC-135 Stratotanker serves as the Air Force’s primary aerial refuelling platform—essentially a flying petrol station that extends the range and loiter time of combat aircraft over battle zones. Standard crew configuration includes a pilot, co-pilot and boom operator, though missions may require additional navigators. The aircraft can also be configured for cargo and medical evacuation roles.
Akahi News learnt that these aircraft rank among the oldest active platforms in the US inventory. The final KC-135 left production lines in 1965, meaning the youngest examples are now 60 years old. Based on the Boeing 707 commercial airframe, 376 remain on active duty according to a recent congressional report, though most have undergone significant upgrades including engine replacements.
The Air Force has not disclosed the specific mission Thursday’s aircraft were supporting.
Fourth Aircraft Loss in Current Campaign
Thursday’s crash marks the fourth known US aircraft loss since the commencement of operations against Iranian-backed forces. Last week, three F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were shot down over Kuwait in a friendly fire incident. All six crew members ejected safely.
Military investigators are now working to determine the cause of the KC-135 crash, with mechanical failure, pilot error or mid-air collision among potential factors under examination.
🎓 Attend 2027/2028 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News