Where Is the Third Major U.S. Base in Saudi Arabia?
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), alongside the Eskan and Prince Sultan air bases near Riyadh, operates another facility at the port of Yanbu in western Saudi Arabia, known as L.S.A. Jenkins.
This base serves a logistical and supply role for U.S. forces in western Saudi Arabia and has recently undergone expansion. Development began in early 2025 and includes the construction of underground storage facilities, ammunition depots, new logistics and support infrastructure, as well as housing for U.S. personnel.
Given its capabilities, the base could potentially serve as an alternative to Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Qatar’s proximity to Iran and the presence of Iran’s short-range missile stockpiles have highlighted Al Udeid’s vulnerability, prompting the U.S. to consider substituting it with other bases. That said, the mission profile of U.S. forces in Saudi Arabia is largely defensive and training-oriented. For instance, during the Saudi-Emirati coalition’s war in Yemen, these forces repeatedly took part in air defense operations, intercepting Yemeni missiles and drones and thereby indirectly engaging in the conflict.
Overall, despite Saudi Arabia’s neutral stance in recent Iran–U.S. tensions, L.S.A. Jenkins could be considered a potential target of Iranian missile strikes. The base is approximately 1,300 km from Iran’s Ahvaz and 990 km from Saada.
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