Newly released images show a large, scorched antenna surrounded by debris from a destroyed dome at Qatar's Al Udeid air base. The photos, released on 16/7, depict the aftermath of an Iranian missile strike late last month. While the exact timing of the photos remains unclear, the damage appears substantial, likely requiring extensive repairs or replacement of the system.
The targeted structure housed a $15 million Modern End Terminal (MET), part of the Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) system used by the US military. Al Udeid, home to numerous US forward command centers, was the first overseas location for a MET installation.
The Pentagon has not yet commented on the images.
 |
A charred antenna at Al Udeid air base in Qatar, as seen in a photo released on 16/7. Photo: Aviationist |
A charred antenna at Al Udeid air base in Qatar, as seen in a photo released on 16/7. Photo: Aviationist
The MET antenna appears to be designated AN/GSC-52B(V5). The first such system was installed at the Wahiawa Satellite Communications Facility in Hawaii in mid-2015. Unlike the Qatar installation, the Hawaiian antenna does not require a protective dome.
The domed MET system at Al Udeid was not the most obvious target among the base's installations, suggesting a calculated decision by Iran.
The fixed nature of the system makes it impossible to relocate, unlike aircraft. Furthermore, hardening the structure against attacks could severely impact signal transmission. Targeting this installation also minimized the risk of casualties, potentially averting US escalation.
On the evening of 23/6, Iran launched ballistic missiles at Al Udeid in retaliation for a US strike earlier that day on three of Tehran's nuclear facilities.
Then-President Donald Trump reported that Iran fired 14 missiles, 13 of which were intercepted. One missile, according to Trump, was "allowed to proceed because it was headed in a non-threatening direction." He characterized Iran's response as "very weak" and emphasized the lack of casualties.
 |
The domed MET at Al Udeid air base in 1/2021. Photo: USAF |
The domed MET at Al Udeid air base in 1/2021. Photo: USAF
Immediately following Tehran's attack, Trump announced a ceasefire agreement between Iran and Israel, ending 12 days of conflict. He did not mention any plans to retaliate for the Al Udeid attack.
Trump revealed that Iran had provided advance warning of the missile launch, giving US and Qatari air defenses time to prepare. The US also evacuated aircraft from the base prior to the incident.
Observers believe Iran's measured missile strike was a calculated move, leaving room for a diplomatic resolution.
Nguyen Tien (Aviationist, AP, AFP)
