RIYADH— An Iranian strike on Prince Sultan Air Base near Riyadh has wounded 12 United States troops, including two in serious condition, according to multiple media reports. The attack marks a continued escalation in regional tensions, with Gulf-based military installations increasingly targeted.
The incident reportedly involved a combination of ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, underscoring the evolving threat to airbases that support aerial refueling and combat operations. Several US Air Force aircraft, including Boeing KC-46 Pegasus refueling planes, sustained damage during the strike.
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Prince Sultan Air Base Attack Overview
Officials familiar with the situation stated that the strike occurred while personnel were inside a protected structure on base. Despite defensive systems in place, at least one projectile struck near operational facilities, causing injuries and equipment damage.
The attack forms part of a broader pattern of retaliatory operations attributed to Iran, targeting locations it claims support US-led missions in the region. Saudi air defenses have previously intercepted similar threats, but this incident indicates gaps remain in interception coverage.
The strike highlights increasing vulnerability at strategic airbases that support coalition operations. As tensions persist, military installations in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries may face heightened threats from both missile and drone attacks.
USAF Aircraft Damage near Riyadh
Reports confirm that multiple aerial refueling aircraft were impacted, though the extent of operational disruption remains unclear.
The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus, a critical asset for extending fighter jet range, plays a key role in sustained air operations across the Gulf, Times of Israel reported.
Damage to such aircraft could temporarily reduce sortie efficiency and logistical flexibility. Military planners may need to redistribute aerial refueling capacity or reposition assets to maintain mission continuity.
US Casualty Update
Since the conflict escalated in late February, more than 300 US troops have sustained injuries across various locations, including Iraq and the Gulf region. Military officials state that most injuries have been minor, allowing personnel to return to duty quickly.
However, at least 13 American service members have died since the start of hostilities. A small number of wounded troops remain in critical condition, reflecting the ongoing risks faced by deployed forces.
Pentagon officials have not issued a formal statement on the latest attack. US Central Command also declined immediate comment, leaving key operational details unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, independent monitoring groups estimate significant Iranian military losses, although verification remains difficult due to restricted access and limited transparency within the country.
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