Iranian Missile and Drone Strike Hits Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Wounding 12 U.S. Troops and Damaging Aircraft

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – An Iranian missile and drone attack struck Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 27, 2026, wounding at least 12 U.S. service members — two of them seriously — and damaging several U.S. Air Force refueling aircraft.

U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the strike involved Iranian ballistic missiles and unmanned drones. The base, located outside Riyadh and shared with Saudi forces, hosts U.S. troops supporting regional operations. The attack damaged KC-135 aerial refueling planes, according to multiple reports.

The incident marks one of the most significant direct hits on U.S. forces in the month-long conflict that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets on February 28, 2026. Overall U.S. casualties in the war now stand at 13 killed and more than 300 wounded, with many returning to duty.

Iran launched the strike in apparent retaliation for recent Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities. Iranian state media and officials framed the action as a response to ongoing aggression. The attack comes amid Iran’s broader threats to disrupt key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Prince Sultan Air Base has faced prior Iranian-linked threats, including earlier incidents that resulted in U.S. casualties. The latest strike underscores Iran’s continued ability to project power despite weeks of U.S.-Israeli airstrikes targeting its military and nuclear infrastructure.

No immediate comment was available from the Pentagon or Saudi officials on the extent of damage or exact casualty details. The developments add pressure on the Trump administration as it balances military operations with diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.