In a significant and concerning development, two US Navy pilots were shot down over the Red Sea on Sunday in an apparent case of friendly fire. The incident occurred amidst ongoing military operations targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels, highlighting the increasing risks in the volatile Red Sea region.
What Happened?
The US Central Command (Centcom) confirmed that the incident involved the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, mistakenly fired on an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet. The aircraft had just launched from the deck of the USS Harry S Truman aircraft carrier when it was hit.
Both pilots aboard the F/A-18 managed to eject safely. One pilot sustained minor injuries, while the other was unharmed.
Details of the Incident
- Date: Sunday, December 22, 2024
- Location: Red Sea
- Aircraft Involved: F/A-18 Super Hornet assigned to the “Red Rippers” of Strike Fighter Squadron 11, based out of Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia.
- Mistaken Fire: USS Gettysburg misidentified the F/A-18, despite the battle group being equipped with advanced radar and communication systems.
Centcom has launched a full investigation into how this error occurred.
The Escalating Danger in the Red Sea
The incident underscores the heightened tensions and dangers in the Red Sea region. The US has been conducting intensified military operations in response to missile and drone attacks from Yemen’s Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.
- Houthi Attacks on Shipping: The Houthis have targeted over 100 merchant vessels using drones and missiles since October 2023.
- US and European Response: Coalition forces have intercepted many of these attacks, while others have resulted in significant damage, including the seizure of one vessel and the sinking of two others.
Amid this backdrop, US warplanes recently carried out airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, including a missile storage facility and a command-and-control center in Sana’a.
Why Does This Incident Matter?
The friendly fire incident not only risks the safety of US personnel but also raises concerns about coordination and communication among US naval forces in high-stress combat zones.
It also highlights the broader challenge of navigating an increasingly hostile environment where split-second decisions can lead to catastrophic errors.
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