World

US Refueling Aircraft Crashes in Iraq

11:14 am - March 13, 2026
World

Darwin, 13 March: A U.S. military refueling aircraft used in operations against Iran has crashed in Iraqi airspace, according to the U.S. Central Command. Six service members were reportedly on board the aircraft.

The U.S. Central Command said the incident occurred around midnight Friday Bangladesh time. Two aircraft were operating in Iraqi airspace when one of them crashed, while the other made an emergency landing. The aircraft involved was a KC-135 tanker.

According to the command, the aircraft was not brought down by enemy fire or accidental weapons discharge. Officials said further details will be released once more information becomes available. A rescue operation is currently underway.

Meanwhile, Iraq’s resistance forces have claimed responsibility for downing the aerial tanker. However, Iraqi authorities have not yet issued any official statement regarding the claim.

Refueling aircraft like the KC-135 are used to supply fuel to fighter jets mid-air during military operations.

The KC-135 tanker is reportedly the fourth U.S. military aircraft lost in the Middle East conflict in recent days. Earlier, three F-15 Eagle fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by a friendly aircraft over Kuwaiti airspace.