Overview
- The KC-135 went down on March 12 over western Iraq during Operation Epic Fury, and CENTCOM later confirmed all six crew members were deceased.
- Two aircraft were involved in the incident and the second plane landed safely, with a formal investigation underway into the circumstances.
- A pro‑Iran Iraqi militia claimed responsibility for downing the tanker, a claim not corroborated by CENTCOM.
- The deaths raise the U.S. military toll in the campaign to at least 13, according to official statements.
- President Trump said U.S. forces struck military targets on Iran’s Kharg Island and warned oil facilities could be hit if shipping is impeded, as the Pentagon moves the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit on USS Tripoli toward the region and discusses Navy escorts for tankers.