US Navy’s $60 Million Jet Plunges into Ocean: What Happened Onboard the Aircraft Carrier?

A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet has gone overboard from the USS Harry S. Truman while being towed on board. This incident happened in the Red Sea as the carrier was involved in operations against Houthi forces.

According to reports, the Truman had to make a sharp turn to avoid incoming fire from Houthi missiles and drones. This evasive action may have caused the jet to fall.

Fortunately, all personnel are accounted for, with only one sailor reporting a minor injury. The Navy indicated that the aircraft was "actively under tow" when control was lost, leading to its fall into the sea. An investigation is currently underway.

A second source confirmed that the fighter jet has sunk. These aircraft are quite valuable, costing over $60 million each. Despite this loss, the Truman Carrier Strike Group remains ready for its mission in the region.

Historically, the Truman has faced multiple threats from Houthi forces, with previous incidents involving missile attacks and even a collision with a merchant ship earlier this year that resulted in no injuries. In December, another F/A-18 from the Truman was accidentally shot down by a U.S. ship in the same area, but both pilots ejected safely.

With the increase in tensions in the region, incidents like these highlight both the risks naval forces face and the intricacies of military operations. The evolving dynamics in the Middle East make it essential for the U.S. military to maintain a vigilant presence.

Understanding these challenges can provide insights into military strategy and the importance of naval aviation in modern conflicts. For more details on U.S. military operations, check the latest reports from the Department of Defense.

Source link