KC-135 Stratotanker — United States Air Force aerial refuelling aircraft. Photo: file
US Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced the loss of a US KC-135 refueling aircraft during the ongoing Operation Epic Fury. The incident occurred in friendly airspace over western Iraq.
In a brief statement issued on Thursday, CENTCOM confirmed the loss of a KC-135 Stratotanker during the continuing military offensive known as Operation Epic Fury. According to CENTCOM, two aircraft were involved, with one going down while the second landed safely. No hostile or friendly fire was involved in the incident.
Rescue and recovery operations are currently ongoing, CENTCOM added, without providing further details on the crew or the cause of the accident.
CENTCOM added that the aircraft loss occurred entirely in non-combat conditions and that investigations are underway.
The KC-135 Stratotanker provides the core aerial refueling capability for the US Air Force and has excelled in this role for more than 60 years. This asset enhances the Air Force’s capability to accomplish its primary mission of global reach. It also provides aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied nation aircraft.
Four turbofans, mounted under 35-degree swept wings, power the KC-135 to takeoffs at gross weights of up to 322,500 pounds. A cargo deck above the refueling system can hold a mixed load of passengers and cargo. Depending on fuel storage configuration, the KC-135 can carry up to 83,000 pounds of cargo.
Earlier incidents have also highlighted operational risks during the campaign. On March 1, three F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets were mistakenly shot down in a friendly-fire incident involving F/A-18 Hornet aircraft near Kuwait. In addition, several MQ-9 Reaper drones have been lost during the conflict.
According to Pentagon officials, at least seven US service members have been killed since the campaign began, while approximately 140 personnel have sustained injuries. Several of the wounded were reported to be in serious condition.
