17.03.2026 11:00
It was reported that Iranian drones struck and completely destroyed the U.S.-made AN/FPS-117 early warning radar located at Al-Qaysumah Airport in northeastern Saudi Arabia. Experts assessed that the radar's incapacitation could affect the military balance in the Gulf.
Iran has launched an attack on Al-Kaysum Airport, located northeast of Saudi Arabia, using kamikaze drones, and it has been reported that one of the key components of the air defense system, the U.S.-made early warning radar, was hit. Satellite images clearly revealed the situation of the facility before and after the attack.
THE TARGET WAS THE EARLY WARNING RADAR
The main target of Iran's attacks was the AN/FPS-117 type early warning radar stationed in the region. Satellite images shared by military sources and open-source researchers showed that the area where the radar system was located became completely unusable after the attack.
BLIND SPOT WARNING
Experts pointed out that the radar in question is a critical defense element covering hundreds of kilometers, stating that its destruction could create a serious security gap in the region. The system was capable of detecting fighter jets, ballistic missiles, and drones coming from low altitudes at an early stage.
CLAIM OF STRATEGIC ATTACK
Military analysts suggested that the attack was not random and that Iran was following a planned strategy to neutralize air defense systems.
BALANCES IN THE GULF MAY CHANGE
Following the public release of satellite images related to the attack, experts assessed that the radar's being out of service could affect military balances in the Gulf.