A US military refuelling aircraft, a KC-135 Stratotanker, went missing after declaring an emergency over the Persian Gulf. The aircraft transmitted a ‘7700’ distress signal, indicating a general emergency. This incident occurred amid rising tensions between the US and Iran.
The KC-135 was conducting aerial refuelling operations when it experienced the emergency. It took off from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.
As of midday, the aircraft lost its signal near Qatar after flying in a circular holding pattern. H125 light utility helicopters were observed in the area shortly after the aircraft lost contact.
No official confirmation has been provided regarding the cause of the emergency. The signal is internationally recognised to indicate a serious in-flight emergency.
The fate of the aircraft remains unconfirmed as a statement from the US government is awaited. There is no confirmation linking the emergency to any hostile action.
This incident follows previous concerns regarding military operations in this sensitive region, especially with ongoing US-Iran tensions. In March, another KC-135 aircraft went down in Iraq during heightened conflict.
