US Military Aircraft Damaged in Iran Attacks at Saudi Air Base

Riyadh – At least five U.S. Military aircraft stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia have sustained damage in recent Iranian attacks, according to reports from the Wall Street Journal. While the Pentagon has not yet issued a direct response, the damage occurred as a result of Iranian missile attacks targeting Saudi military bases.

Details of the Attack

The Wall Street Journal, citing two unnamed U.S. Officials, reported that the damaged aircraft are KC-135 Stratotanker aerial refueling planes. These planes were reportedly hit while on the ground at Prince Sultan Air Base, located in the al-Kharj area of Saudi Arabia, a key location housing numerous U.S. Fighter jets. Sources indicate the aircraft were damaged but not destroyed and are currently undergoing repairs. No casualties were reported as a result of the attack.

Recent Regional Incidents

This incident follows a separate event earlier in March where a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq, resulting in the deaths of six U.S. Military personnel. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the crash was not caused by enemy or friendly fire, and an investigation is ongoing.^{CBS News}

Escalating Tensions and Iranian Retaliation

Iran launched a wave of missile and drone attacks against Gulf states hosting U.S. Military assets, including Saudi Arabia, in retaliation for U.S. And Israeli attacks that began on February 28.^{CBS News} Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense reported intercepting and destroying at least eight drones in its airspace on Saturday morning.

Casualties and Costs of the Conflict

As of March 10, 2026, approximately 140 U.S. Troops have been wounded in the first 10 days of the war with Iran, a figure significantly higher than initially reported by the Pentagon.^{ABC News} The vast majority of these injuries are considered minor, with 108 service members already returning to duty. Eight service members remain severely injured and are receiving advanced medical care.^{ABC News}

The first six days of the war are estimated to have cost the U.S. Over $11.3 billion, according to a Pentagon estimate provided to Congress.^{AP News}

Ongoing Conflict and Future Outlook

President Trump has stated that the war with Iran will end “particularly soon,” but Tehran maintains it is “prepared to continue attacking” and will prevent oil shipments from the Gulf.^{CBS News}