Story perspectives

US Denies Fire-Evasion Cause in Fatal Tanker Crash, $29B Repairs

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Central Command disputes that the KC-135 tanker crash was caused by pilots evading anti-aircraft fire.
The crash in Iraq killed six crew members and is expected to be deemed an avoidable mishap.
The Congressional Research Service counted 42 U.S. aircraft lost or damaged since the war began, including 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones worth $30 million each.
Acting comptroller Jules Hurst told Congress equipment repair costs have reached $29 billion, excluding base damage.

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Story summary

Central Command disputes that the KC-135 tanker crash was caused by pilots evading anti-aircraft fire.
The crash in Iraq killed six crew members and is expected to be deemed an avoidable mishap.
The Congressional Research Service counted 42 U.S. aircraft lost or damaged since the war began, including 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones worth $30 million each.
Acting comptroller Jules Hurst told Congress equipment repair costs have reached $29 billion, excluding base damage.