U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry Damaged in Iranian Strike on Saudi Base

Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia — A U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control aircraft sustained significant damage during an Iranian missile and drone attack on March 27, 2026.

Three of six E-3 Sentries stationed at the base were targeted, with image evidence reviewed by Air & Space Forces Magazine confirming damage to at least one aircraft. The strike injured more than 10 U.S. service members, two seriously, and also damaged aerial refueling tankers at the facility.

U.S. Central Command declined to comment on specific incident details as of March 28. Defense experts warn the damage strains an already dwindling E-3 fleet, potentially creating gaps in battlespace awareness and targeting capabilities during Operation Epic Fury.