Satellite images reveal increase in refuelling tankers and AWACS aircraft at Prince Sultan Airbase as Washington strengthens regional forces during nuclear talks with Tehran
Satellite imagery revealed an increase in military support aircraft, including refuelling tankers, at a Saudi airbase used by the US military over a four-day period in February, reflecting Washington’s force buildup in the region amid rising tensions with Iran, according to a Reuters report.
Saudi Arabia, a long-time US ally, had informed Tehran last month that it would not permit its airspace or territory to be used for military operations against Iran. Tehran held indirect nuclear negotiations with Washington on Thursday.
High-resolution satellite images showed at least 43 aircraft at Prince Sultan Airbase on February 21, up from 27 aircraft on February 17. The number later declined to 38 by February 25.
Planes include Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers
The February 21 satellite image showed 13 Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers and six Boeing E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft among a total of 29 large, swept-wing aircraft parked at Prince Sultan Airbase, according to the Reuters report, citing William Goodhind, a forensic imagery analyst with Contested Ground.
In comparison, a medium-resolution image from February 17 showed just 11 large, swept-wing aircraft, based on a Reuters tally.
When asked for comment, the Pentagon said it had “nothing to provide,” noting that the US military generally does not comment on force movements.
Oman, which is mediating between Washington and Tehran, said the sides made progress in indirect talks on Thursday, though no breakthrough was reported to avert potential US strikes.
Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi said negotiations are set to resume soon, with technical-level discussions scheduled next week in Vienna.
US President Donald Trump on February 19 had set a 10- to 15-day deadline for Iran to reach a deal, warning that “really bad things” could occur otherwise.
A comparison of satellite imagery from early February and January also indicated a broader build-up of aircraft and other military assets across the region.
Recent images have shown Iran repairing and reinforcing sites, including a sensitive military facility reportedly targeted by Israel in 2024.
With inputs from agencies
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