Daijiworld Media Network - Western Iraq

Western Iraq, Mar 13: A US KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on Thursday, while a second plane involved in the operation landed safely, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed. Officials clarified that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire.

The KC-135, in service for over 60 years, typically carries a crew of three — a pilot, copilot, and boom operator — though some missions require a navigator. The aircraft can accommodate up to 37 passengers, according to US Air Force data.

This marks at least the fourth US military aircraft lost in the ongoing Middle East conflict. Earlier, three F-15E fighters were accidentally shot down by Kuwaiti forces, though all six crew members safely ejected. CENTCOM noted that incident occurred amid attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones during combat operations.

The cause of the KC-135 crash is under investigation.