A U.S. Navy fighter jet fell into the Red Sea following a loss of control while being towed, prompting an investigation and highlighting the challenges faced by the Navy in high-stress environments.
U.S. Navy Fighter Jet Sinks in Red Sea Amid Houthi Threats
U.S. Navy Fighter Jet Sinks in Red Sea Amid Houthi Threats
The incident raises questions about naval safety protocols during active military operations in conflict zones.
A U.S. Navy fighter jet, an F/A-18 Super Hornet, along with a tow tractor, sank into the Red Sea on Monday after it fell off the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Harry S. Truman, which is currently operating in the region to support military actions against Houthi militia in Yemen. The Navy reported that one sailor sustained minor injuries during the incident, which is now under investigation.
According to Defense Department officials, the mishap occurred while crew members were maneuvering the aircraft in the hangar bay. It is believed that the aircraft carrier was making a hard turn to position itself against potential Houthi missile and drone threats, and this maneuver may have contributed to the loss of control over the jet. It is noted, however, that this was not the sole factor leading to the accident.
The Houthi spokesman, Yahya Saree, claimed responsibility, stating that the group had launched missiles and drones at the Truman. In light of these threats, crew members acted quickly to move away from the aircraft before it fell overboard, according to the Navy.
The Houthis have increased their attacks on various ships in the Red Sea, which they attribute as a show of support for Gaza and Hamas. This incident follows a U.S. military air campaign against the Houthis, initiated by President Trump on March 15, in response to regional tensions. The campaign, known as Operation Rough Rider, has seen American forces targeting over 800 locations in Yemen, focused on strategic military capabilities.
Despite the loss of the fighter jet, the Navy affirmed that the Truman and its accompanying strike group remain “fully mission capable.” This incident reflects ongoing operational difficulties for the Truman during its deployment in the Middle East, notably including a prior collision with a merchant ship off the coast of Egypt in February, which resulted in significant damage and the dismissal of the strike group commander. Additionally, an F/A-18 from the carrier was shot down by friendly fire from the guided-missile cruiser Gettysburg in December, though the pilots were safely rescued.
The U.S. Navy's handling of operational challenges in high-risk environments continues to be a focus of scrutiny, especially given the increasing tensions and military engagements in the region.
