Story perspectives

Four U.S. Service Members Die in Iraq Aircraft Crash

3/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Four U.S. service members died in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in western Iraq on March 12, 2026, during "Operation Epic Fury."
The crash occurred at approximately 2 p.m. ET due to a mid-air collision with another KC-135, which landed safely in Israel.
U.S. Central Command confirmed that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire.
The identities of the deceased are withheld pending family notification.
This incident marks the fourth U.S. aircraft loss linked to the operation, which began on February 28, 2026.

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Story summary

Four U.S. service members died in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in western Iraq on March 12, 2026, during "Operation Epic Fury."
The crash occurred at approximately 2 p.m. ET due to a mid-air collision with another KC-135, which landed safely in Israel.
U.S. Central Command confirmed that the crash was not caused by hostile or friendly fire.
The identities of the deceased are withheld pending family notification.
This incident marks the fourth U.S. aircraft loss linked to the operation, which began on February 28, 2026.