Iran Destroys US E-3 AWACS at Saudi Base, Injures 12 Troops
Key Takeaways
- Iranian missile and drone attack hits Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
- Casualties reported as 10-15 U.S. service members wounded.
- E-3 AWACS status disputed: damaged per some reports, destroyed per others.
Iran Strikes Prince Sultan Base
Iran launched coordinated missile and drone attacks on Prince Sultan Air Base.
Iran destroyed a US E-3 Sentry AWACS and injured 12 US service members.
Photos showed the E-3's tail section severed and radar dome destroyed.
Strategic Blow to US Operations
The E-3 Sentry provides airborne command and control with 250 miles radar coverage.
Its destruction degrades US situational awareness and coordination capabilities.
The US had only 16 operational E-3s before the attack.
Russian Intelligence Shared with Iran
Zelensky said Russia shared satellite images of Prince Sultan Air Base with Iran.
“Iranian attack on Saudi base wounds at least 10 US troops and damages several planes WASHINGTON (AP) — An Iranian missile attack Friday wounded at least 10 U”
Russia took images on March 20, 23, and 25, and Iran struck on March 26.
Zelensky said he was 100% confident Russia was sharing such intelligence.
Damage to US-Turkish Coordination
Turkey informed the US it would withdraw troops from the coalition.
The destruction of key assets like the E-3 complicates command and control.
IRGC Commander Hajizadeh threatened all bases would be erased.
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