Four Confirmed Dead After U.S. Refueling Aircraft Crashes in Western Iraq

By Momodu Favour

Four service members have been confirmed dead following the crash of a U.S. military refueling aircraft in western Iraq, U.S. defense officials said on Thursday.

According to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), the incident occurred at approximately 2 p.m. Eastern Time on March 12 when a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker went down during operations in the region.

Six crew members were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash. Authorities confirmed that four have been found deceased, while search and rescue operations are ongoing for the remaining two personnel.

In a statement released from Tampa, Florida, CENTCOM said the circumstances surrounding the crash are currently under investigation. Officials noted that preliminary assessments indicate the aircraft was not brought down by hostile fire or friendly fire, suggesting the possibility of a mechanical failure or other operational issue.

The KC-135 Stratotanker is a long-serving aerial refueling aircraft used by the United States Air Force to extend the range and endurance of military jets during operations.

Rescue teams, including U.S. and partner forces operating in Iraq, were deployed to the crash site shortly after the incident to locate the crew and secure the area.

Military officials said the identities of the deceased service members are being withheld until at least 24 hours after their next of kin have been formally notified.

Further details about the cause of the crash and the condition of the remaining crew members are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.