US's $700 million AWACS aircraft hit in strike on Saudi air base, claims Iran

Iran on Friday claimed it had carried out a missile and drone strike on a US-operated air base in Saudi Arabia, alleging damage to key military assets, including a high-value airborne warning and control system aircraft.

According to Iran’s Press TV, the attack targeted Prince Sultan Air Base, where US forces are stationed. The report said a Boeing E-3 Sentry — an airborne early-warning platform used to track aircraft and missiles and coordinate battlefield operations — was among those hit, along with multiple refuelling planes.

Images released by Press TV purportedly showed visible damage to the aircraft, with reports claiming only parts of the fuselage remained intact. The E-3 Sentry is part of a limited US fleet with no easy



replacement and is estimated to cost over USD 700 million, the Wall Street Journal reported.

According to officials cited by the Associated Press, Iran fired six ballistic missiles and 29 drones at the base. At least 15 US personnel were injured in the strike, including five seriously, with two in critical condition.

The Prince Sultan Air Base, located about 96 km from Riyadh and operated by the Royal Saudi Air Force but also used by US troops, has been targeted multiple times since the conflict began nearly a month ago. Earlier in the week, another attack injured 14 US personnel.

However, the United States Central Command has not issued an official statement confirming the extent of the damage or casualties.