U.S. Refueling Plane Crashes in Iraq

A U.S. military KC-135 refueling plane crashed in western Iraq on Thursday, March 12, 2026, resulting in the deaths of four of its six crew members during operations related to the ongoing conflict with Iran. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the incident, stating the crash occurred around 2 p.m. ET.

Rescue efforts are underway for the remaining two crew members. CENTCOM indicated that the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile or friendly fire, and the circumstances are under investigation. Another aircraft involved in the same incident landed safely. The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending family notification.

This incident brings the total number of active U.S. service personnel killed since the conflict began on February 28 to 10. An 11th service member died from a medical issue. The KC-135 Stratotanker, valued at nearly $40 million per unit, has served as a primary refueling aircraft for the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, and Navy for over 60 years.