Missiles fired at Prince Sultan Air Base; US’s ‘spy in the sky’; E-3 AWACS piles up, see photos of destruction

US E-3 Aircraft Destroyed: American E-3 Sentry AWACS damaged in Iran’s missile and drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base. It is an airborne warning and control aircraft, which plays an important role in monitoring and coordinating drones, missiles, aircraft and aerial refueling tankers in the battlefield. The Wall Street Journal, quoting sources close to the case, reported that at least 12 Americans were injured in the attack, two of whom are in critical condition.

The E-3 Sentry AWACS is no ordinary aircraft, it is a tricked-out Boeing 707 that acts as an airborne command center. It can monitor target, fighter aircraft, drone and missile activities in an area of ​​up to 250 miles. Retired US Air Force Colonel John Venable said that this loss will affect the US’s ability to monitor and assess the situation in the Gulf region.

Why is Prince Sultan Air Base important?

Prince Sultan Air Base is a vital hub for US air operations in the Middle East. It helps in intelligence gathering, aerial refueling and strike coordination. Aircraft such as AWACS play a central role in airborne command and surveillance, while tanker planes help extend the operational reach of combat aircraft.

🔥 At least 2 American E-3 aircraft destroyed at Prince Sultan Air Base Saudi Arabia, and there are only 16 of these aircraft in the United States. pic.twitter.com/7cnj8FY2iG

—True Promise – The promise of truth ✪🇮🇷 (@IRTruePromise) March 29, 2026

More than 303 American soldiers injured

US Central Command (CENTCOM) said 303 Americans have been injured since the US and Israeli bombing of Iran began. Navy Capt. Tim Hawkins, a CENTCOM spokesman, said most of the injuries were minor and 273 soldiers have returned to duty.

Meanwhile, America has increased its military presence in the Middle East. 3,500 Marines and sailors deployed aboard the USS Tripoli (LHA-7) have arrived in the area. CENTCOM confirmed this and said the troops arrived on the USS Tripoli on 27 March.

Also read- Former Pakistan Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa passed away, was undergoing treatment in the hospital for a month.

America is considering ground action

This new deployment comes as the Pentagon is reportedly considering sending 10,000 additional ground troops to the Middle East. Its purpose is to provide President Donald Trump with more military options apart from diplomacy.