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In a concerning incident on December 22, 2024, a U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet was mistakenly shot down over the Red Sea by the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg. Both pilots ejected safely; one sustained minor injuries.
The mishap occurred during operations targeting Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have intensified attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023. The USS Gettysburg, part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, erroneously engaged the aircraft shortly after its launch.
This incident underscores the complexities and risks of military operations in the region, where heightened tensions and rapid engagements increase the potential for such errors. The U.S. military has initiated an investigation to determine the factors leading to this friendly fire event.
The Red Sea has become increasingly perilous due to Houthi attacks on shipping lanes, prompting a bolstered U.S. and European naval presence aimed at safeguarding international trade routes. Despite these efforts, the Houthis continue their assaults, claiming to target vessels linked to Israel, the U.S., and the U.K.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Red Sea involving a U.S. warplane?
A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet was mistakenly shot down by the USS Gettysburg over the Red Sea in a friendly fire incident. Both pilots ejected safely; one sustained minor injuries.
Why was the U.S. military operating in the Red Sea?
The U.S. military was conducting operations against Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have escalated attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October 2023.
What is the USS Gettysburg?
The USS Gettysburg is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser in the U.S. Navy, part of the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.
What are the implications of this friendly fire incident?
This incident highlights the inherent risks in complex military operations and underscores the need for stringent coordination to prevent such occurrences in the future.
What actions are being taken following this incident?
The U.S. military has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the friendly fire and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents.