A United States Air Force refuelling aircraft has crashed in western Iraq amid ongoing military operations tied to the escalating conflict with Iran, the United States Central Command confirmed on Thursday.
In a statement, the command disclosed that a KC-135 Stratotanker was lost during Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led military campaign reportedly aimed at Iranian military facilities.
According to the military command, the crash occurred within what it described as “friendly airspace,” noting that preliminary findings indicate the incident was not the result of hostile action or friendly fire.
Officials further explained that two aircraft were involved during the operation. While one of the planes went down in western Iraq, the second aircraft successfully landed without incident.
Search-and-rescue teams were immediately deployed to the area in a bid to locate and assist any crew members affected by the crash.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether there were fatalities or injuries, adding that further information will be provided once investigations progress and the families of the service members involved are duly informed.
The crash marks the fourth publicly confirmed loss of a U.S. aircraft since the outbreak of the conflict.
The command added that additional updates would be released as rescue efforts continue and more details about the incident emerge.
