U.S. Central Command confirmed that all six crew members aboard the U.S. Air Force KC-135 refueling aircraft that crashed in western Iraq have been confirmed deceased.
The aircraft was lost on March 12 during Operation Epic Fury while flying in friendly airspace, according to the official statement.
Authorities said the circumstances of the incident remain under investigation, but confirmed that the crash was not caused by hostile fire or friendly fire.
The identities of the six service members are being withheld until 24 hours after their families have been notified, in accordance with military procedures.
The KC-135 Stratotanker is a critical aerial refueling aircraft used to support fighter jets and bombers, allowing them to remain airborne during long-range missions across the region.
