US E-3 Sentry AWACS Heavily Damaged in Iranian Missile and Drone Strike on Saudi Air Base

A high-value U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft was severely damaged when Iranian forces launched a missile and drone attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 27, 2026.

The strike also wounded 12 American service members and caused damage to multiple KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, according to U.S. and regional officials. Images show extensive destruction to the E-3, with its tail section and rear fuselage heavily impacted while the aircraft was on a taxiway.

The E-3 Sentry, valued at around $500–600 million, serves as a critical “flying radar” for real-time surveillance, command and control, and battle management across the region. Its loss or prolonged downtime represents a significant setback for U.S. and allied air operations, as the fleet is already limited in number.

Analysts suggest the precision of the hit, targeting a specific aircraft on the ground, may indicate near real-time intelligence support, possibly from satellite data provided by Russia or China, going beyond the typical accuracy of Iranian ballistic missiles.U.S. Central Command has confirmed casualties but has not released full details on the extent of damage or repair timelines. Experts estimate that returning the damaged E-3 to operational status could take several months.