A United States military refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on Thursday while supporting American operations linked to the escalating conflict with Iran. The aircraft, identified as a KC-135 Stratotanker, went down during Operation Epic Fury, prompting immediate rescue efforts from US forces in the region.
While US military officials said the crash did not occur due to hostile or friendly fire, an Iran-backed militia group claimed responsibility and said it had shot down the aircraft using air defence systems. The conflicting claims have added fresh uncertainty to the already volatile security situation in West Asia.
Fact Check: US KC-135 Shot Down or Crashed?
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the loss of the aircraft and said two planes were involved in the incident. According to the US military, one aircraft crashed in western Iraq while the second plane managed to land safely.
Officials also stressed that the crash happened in an area described as friendly airspace. “The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury,” the statement said.
“Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, while the second aircraft was able to land safely. This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire,” CENTCOM said.
U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft. The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the…
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 12, 2026
US authorities launched search and rescue operations immediately after the aircraft went down. Officials have not yet released full details about the crew or the exact cause of the incident.
US-Iran War News Update: Iran-Backed Group Claims Responsibility
Despite the US statement, an Iran-aligned militia coalition in Iraq said its fighters were responsible for the aircraft crash.
The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed armed factions, released a statement claiming that its fighters targeted the aircraft.
The group said in a statement it had shot down the KC-135 aircraft “in defence of our country’s sovereignty and airspace”.
In a statement posted on its official Telegram channel, the group asserted that its fighters used air defence systems to target the aircraft, causing it to crash.
However, independent verification of the militia’s claim has not yet emerged.
Strategic Role of the KC-135 Stratotanker
The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker is one of the most critical aerial refuelling aircraft used by the United States Air Force. It plays a central role in enabling long-range military operations.
The aircraft’s primary mission is aerial refuelling. It allows fighter jets, bombers and surveillance aircraft to receive fuel while flying. This capability significantly extends the operational range of combat aircraft and allows them to stay airborne for extended periods during missions.
The tanker also supports aircraft operated by multiple branches of the US military, including the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as allied forces.
Apart from refuelling operations, the aircraft can also transport cargo, military personnel and medical patients. During emergencies, it can carry litter and ambulatory patients using specialised medical support systems for aeromedical evacuation missions.
Fact Check Verdict: US KC-135 Shot Down or Crashed?
The crash comes at a time when the United States has deployed a large number of aircraft to the region as part of operations linked to the Iran conflict. These aircraft support strike missions, surveillance operations and logistical activities across West Asia.
Military analysts say aerial refuelling tankers such as the KC-135 are crucial for sustaining long-distance air campaigns. Any disruption involving these aircraft can affect the pace and reach of air operations.
With tensions continuing to escalate in the region, the exact cause of the crash — whether technical, operational or linked to hostile action — is likely to remain under scrutiny in the coming days.
