Iran Strike May Have Taken Out Half of America’s Rare Electronic Warfare Fleet

An Iranian strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia may have damaged two US EC-130H Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft, raising concerns about the availability of these specialized platforms.

Defense Express reports that initial information circulating online suggests the aircraft were hit during what is believed to have been a ballistic missile strike.

While there has been no official confirmation from US authorities regarding the extent of the damage, the reported deployment of two newer EA-37B Compass Call aircraft from the United States is viewed as an indication that replacements may be required.

The EC-130H Compass Call is a dedicated electronic warfare aircraft built on the C-130 Hercules platform, designed to disrupt enemy air defenses, radar systems, and communications. According to Defense Express, a total of 14 such aircraft were produced, though only a limited number—estimated between two and four—remain in operational service.

If both aircraft were significantly damaged, this could represent a substantial portion of the remaining fleet. Defense Express notes that given the platform’s age—it first entered service in the early 1980s—any severe damage may lead to their retirement rather than repair, particularly as the US Air Force transitions to the newer EA-37B variant.

The EA-37B Compass Call is intended to gradually replace the EC-130H fleet, though production remains limited. As a result, any loss or damage to existing aircraft could temporarily affect US electronic warfare capabilities, particularly in ongoing operations in the region.

Earlier, The Washington Post reported on March 29 that the Pentagon is preparing options for limited ground operations in Iran, including rapid coastal raids targeting missile and drone sites, as US forces continue deploying to the region amid rising tensions and ongoing Iranian attacks.

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