Rescue Operations Initiated After US Refuelling Plane Crash in Iraq
Rescue operations are currently underway following the crash of a US military refuelling aircraft in western Iraq, according to US Central Command (Centcom).
Centcom confirmed that neither hostile nor friendly fire was involved in the downing of the KC-135, which occurred over western Iraq.
The tanker had been participating in ongoing US operations against Iran and was one of two aircraft involved in the incident, the military command unit stated. The second aircraft landed safely.
The KC-135, manufactured by Boeing, is capable of refuelling planes midair and typically plays a significant role in US military operations. These aircraft were extensively used during the first Gulf War to extend the range of fighter jets and bombers.
Typically, the KC-135 has a crew consisting of a pilot, a co-pilot, and a boom operator responsible for operating the refuelling arm of the aircraft. However, it is believed that six service personnel were aboard the crashed aircraft.
The status of the plane's crew remains unclear at this time, according to CBS News, the BBC's US partner.
Centcom described the crash as occurring over friendly airspace, although this region of Iraq is known to be an area where pro-Iranian militias operate. Iran's military claimed on state television that an allied group had targeted the plane with a missile.
Reactions from US Lawmakers
Democratic Congressman Jim Himes, a member of the so-called "Gang of Eight" US lawmakers who are typically briefed on military operations, appeared on night shortly after the incident was reported.
He told the programme that it was too early to determine the specific cause of the crash, but said: "A KC135 is usually used for refuelling. It carries a crew between 3-5 people. We pray that those 3-5 people are safe."
Himes added: "This is part of the inevitable cost of a conflict. Even the best military doesn't operate without accidents and that's what appeared to have occurred here."
Context of the Conflict and Aircraft Losses
Since the outbreak of the US-Israel war with Iran, seven US soldiers have been confirmed killed in the conflict.
The US military has lost at least four aircraft during the current war.
Earlier this month, three F-15s were shot down in what officials described as "an apparent friendly fire incident" over Kuwait. All six crew members were able to safely eject.
Background on the KC-135 Stratotanker
Boeing manufactured the KC-135 Stratotanker for the US military in the 1950s and early 1960s.
The aircraft has been a backbone of the US military's air refuelling fleet, enabling combat aircraft to carry out longer missions without needing to land.
