In a back-to-back series of incidents involving the U.S.S. Truman, another fighter jet was lost at sea following a malfunction during landing, raising concerns over operational safety as tensions with Houthi forces mount.
Second U.S. Navy Fighter Jet Goes Overboard Near U.S.S. Truman in Two Weeks
Second U.S. Navy Fighter Jet Goes Overboard Near U.S.S. Truman in Two Weeks
The U.S. Navy experiences another aviation mishap as an F/A-18 Super Hornet crashes into the Red Sea, marking a troubling trend for the U.S.S. Truman.
For the second time in a fortnight, a U.S. Navy fighter jet from the aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman has been lost in the Red Sea. The mishap occurred on Tuesday when an F/A-18 Super Hornet attempted to land on the Truman's flight deck. The aircraft’s arrestment system failed, resulting in the fighter going overboard, as confirmed by U.S. Central Command. Fortunately, the two pilots ejected safely and suffered only minor injuries, later being rescued by a helicopter; no other personnel were harmed in the incident.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another accident just last week, where an F/A-18 Super Hornet and a tow tractor fell off the Truman due to control issues while the aircraft carrier was adjusting its position to counteract threats from Houthi missile fire. The Houthi militia has escalated their attacks on maritime targets in the Red Sea, aligning their efforts with the ongoing conflict involving Gaza and Hamas.
Diplomatic discussions between the U.S. and Houthi officials recently resulted in an agreement to pause American airstrikes against the group, contingent upon Houthi promises to cease assaults on U.S. vessels. "They have capitulated, but more importantly, we will take their word," stated President Trump, affirming that the group has committed to ending maritime violence. The intelligence community suggests that these new tactics may be a response to U.S. military efforts which have intensified under the recent Operation Rough Rider, initiated to counter Houthi aggression.
The series of unfortunate events surrounding the Truman does not end with these incidents; reports emerge of several other significant accidents since its deployment in September. Notably, a collision with a merchant ship near Port Said, Egypt back in February caused damage to both vessels, and an F/A-18 from the carrier was downed by the guided-missile cruiser U.S.S. Gettysburg in December, with pilots recovering unscathed.
As the U.S.S. Truman continues its deployment, the Navy faces increased scrutiny regarding aircraft safety and operational protocols as tensions rise in the volatile region.
