This story is developing...
UPDATE: Pentagon Response:
Hi, we do not confirm images obtained from outside sources.
Very Respectfully,
Duty Officer
Pentagon Press Operations
UPDATE: Unconfirmed images - We have asked Pentagon Press Operations for comment and confirmation.
THESE IMAGES ARE NOT CONFIRMED
AFP reported previously on the Iranian targeting of American AWACS and air refueling aircraft at a Saudi air base in recent days.
We also reported prior to the war on the dangers facing American aircraft to missiles and drones.
This morning Iran released alleged photos of the E-3 aircraft being totally destroyed. The AWACS is a high-value target and a significant blow to the U.S. Air Force. It cannot be easily replaced.
President Trump commented yesterday the aircraft was just damaged.
If confirmed, this event shows the U.S. cannot protect its critical infrastructure from regional attack by Iran, which will put pressure on American forces operating in the theater, forcing U.S. aircraft to stage from bases outside the area.
If American leadership is also caught lying about the incident, it will damage American credibility in the war.
The question must be asked -- who continues to make the decision to base high-value targets within range of Iranian weapon systems?
CENTCOM has not commented on the situation.
