Six Confirmed Deceased in Loss of U.S. KC-135 Over Iraq Published March 13, 2026 USCENTCOM TAMPA, Fla. (AFNS) -- All six crew members aboard a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft that went down in western Iraq are now confirmed deceased. The aircraft was lost while flying over friendly airspace March 12 during Operation Epic Fury.The circumstances of the incident are under investigation. However, the loss of the aircraft was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.The identities of the service members are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified. U.S. Air Force Logo