Images published Sunday confirm the destruction of a United States Air Force E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
The loss follows a targeted Iranian strike that significantly degrades American aerial surveillance capabilities in the region.
Documentation from the site reveals the aircraft's fuselage was split in two, with its signature rotating radar dome thrown to the ground.
Reports indicate that twelve soldiers were wounded in the attack and several tanker aircraft sustained varying degrees of damage.
The E-3 AWACS is a critical component of modern air combat, providing real-time battle management and a comprehensive picture of the airspace.
With only 16 such aircraft remaining in service and the production line long since closed, the loss is described by experts as a major strategic blow.
Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel John Venable told the Wall Street Journal that the incident is a "very big deal."
He noted that the destruction directly impacts the U.S. military's ability to monitor activity across the Persian Gulf.
Military analysts are investigating how Iran achieved such precision against a high-value asset.
Some experts suggest Tehran may have utilized intelligence provided by outside parties, including Russia or China, to coordinate the strike.
The attack occurs as President Donald Trump's administration continues Operation Epic Fury.
Currently, at least three E-3 aircraft are assigned to the regional operation, and officials say an additional plane will now be required to maintain coverage.
In Tehran, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, issued a stern warning following the strike.
He stated that Iran’s armed forces are prepared for a potential American ground assault and are ready to punish the United States and its allies.
Qalibaf accused the U.S. of using diplomatic talk as a cover for secret preparations for an invasion of Iranian soil.
These comments coincide with the arrival of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in the region.
Reports from the New York Post on Sunday suggest the U.S. military has finalized multiple contingency plans for ground operations within Iranian territory.
The situation remains volatile as both nations increase their military posture.