A U.S. military KC-135 Stratotanker declared an in-flight emergency while flying near Qatar, raising concerns amid escalating tensions with Iran. The aircraft transmitted a ‘7700’ general distress signal before disappearing from tracking screens.
The KC-135 Stratotanker took off from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. It was reportedly conducting refueling operations over the Gulf when it transmitted the distress signal.
The aircraft went off radar after declaring an emergency over the Persian Gulf. According to a U.S. defense official, the aircraft landed safely.
H125 light utility helicopters were observed in the area after the military aircraft lost its signal. The KC-135 is designed to extend the range of U.S. bombers and fighter aircraft by refueling them mid-air.
Officials have not confirmed the ultimate fate of the aircraft. It is unclear whether the tanker was en route to a specific base or conducting a refueling mission at the time.
