March 29, 2026

Iranian Missile Likely Destroyed US AWACS Aircraft — A First in History. How Did Iran Hit a US Air Command Center and How Will This Affect the War?

The Iranian army likely fired on a US AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft, causing critical damage during an attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. This article investigates how Iran managed to destroy one of the US's most valuable aircraft and its potential impact on the Middle East conflict. The incident occurred during an Iranian strike on March 28th, resulting in 12 US military personnel injured, two critically. While US authorities have not commented, media reports show images of the severely damaged aircraft, allegedly hit by a combined Iranian missile and drone attack. This is considered one of the most serious failures of US air defense during the current campaign. Two Boeing KC-135 refueling aircraft were also damaged. The Boeing E-3 Sentry AWACS is described as a legendary flying radar station and command post, developed in the US and also used by France, the UK, and Saudi Arabia. It provides 360-degree radar coverage up to 400 km and is crucial for coordinating fighter jets, managing air refueling, and ensuring airspace security. The aircraft has been in service for nearly half a century, with a replacement, the E-7, under development. The cost of a modern AWACS is estimated at $400-500 million. Experts suggest that the attack, likely coordinated by Iranian intelligence agents, highlights the need for better US military asset protection and air defense in the region. The damaged AWACS is likely irreparable. The article also discusses the potential use of Israeli, Cypriot, and Cretan air bases for better security of US aircraft.