TAMPA – A U.S. KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft was downed over western Iraq on Thursday while conducting operations in support of Operation Eric fury and rescue efforts remain underway following the incident involving two aircraft in U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) airspace.
The loss occurred during routine flight operations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility, with one KC–135 reported down, and the second aircraft landing safely per an official command press release. Officials explicitly stated that the event did not occur in relation to hostile or friendly fire.
The Tampa-headquartered, U.S. Central Command issued a statement acknowledging the loss of the U.S. aircraft.
The incident unfolded as part of ongoing Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led military campaign involving extensive aerial operations and assaults on enemy targets deep within Iran. The KC-135 provides foundational support that enables air mobility and extends range for prolonged operations without requiring immediate landings.
This marks the first reported loss of a KC-135 Stratotanker in support of direct combat operations, since a KC-135 from the United States Air Force 22nd Air Refueling Wing crashed in northern Kyrgyzstan during combat operations in Afghanistan on May 3, 2013.
The Stratotanker fleet is a dominant U.S. Air Force capability that maintains exceptional safety records across thousands of global missions throughout recent decades. These events are infrequent, but reminds us of the hazards our servicemembers expose themselves to in support of our nation.
The U.S. Central Command emphasized the importance of patience as investigators gather preliminary facts and additional information about the incident. More information is anticipated to be released as the situation evolves to ensure information clarity and support for the families of the involved service members.
An official investigation is expected, as this remains a developing story as Operation Epic Fury proceeds and the incident signifies the operational risk in forward-deployed environments.
