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Press Release | March 13, 2026

Four Confirmed Deceased in Loss of U.S. KC-135 Over Iraq

USCENTCOM

TAMPA, Fla. – At approximately 2 pm ET on March 12, a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft went down in western Iraq. Four of six crew members on board the aircraft have been confirmed deceased as rescue efforts continue.

The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire. 

The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.