The US lost seven MQ-9 Reaper drones in Yemen since mid-March, with an F/A-18E warplane also lost from the USS Harry S. Truman. The Navy reported injuries from the accidents. The ongoing military campaign against Huthi rebels has resulted in over 800 strikes and increased shipping disruptions.
In a concerning turn of events, the United States has reported the loss of seven MQ-9 Reaper drones in Yemen since March 15. A US official disclosed this information on Monday, coinciding with the Navy’s announcement regarding an F/A-18E warplane that accidentally fell off the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier into the Red Sea.
Launched in mid-March, the air campaign against Yemen’s Huthis relies heavily on MQ-9 drones for both reconnaissance and strikes, aiding in identifying and targeting weaponry used by the rebels. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, did not provide details on what led to the drones’ losses, which are valued at approximately $30 million each.
Additionally, the incident involving the F/A-18E warplane saw one sailor injured when it slipped off during a tow with a tractor that also fell overboard. In a statement, the Navy explained that the aircraft was being moved within the hangar bay when control was lost. The ship continues operations, and the incident is currently under investigation.
This incident marks the second loss of an F/A-18 from the Truman in a short span. A previous F/A-18 was mistakenly shot down by the USS Gettysburg guided missile cruiser late last year, though both pilots managed to survive that incident.
The USS Harry S. Truman is one of two aircraft carriers deployed in the Middle East, actively targeting Huthi fighters nearly every day since the campaign began in mid-March. According to US Central Command, more than 800 strikes have been reported, resulting in hundreds of Huthi casualties, including leadership members.
The Iran-backed Huthis have escalated their attacks on shipping routes since late 2023, claiming solidarity with Palestinians affected by the Israeli military campaign that erupted after a Hamas attack in October. These Huthi assaults have notably disrupted traffic through the Suez Canal, a critical artery for global shipping, compelling many vessels to navigate around the southern tip of Africa instead of using the canal, incurring significant costs.
The Biden administration commenced military actions against the Huthis, reflecting a commitment that President Trump reaffirmed, stating military operations will persist until the group ceases to pose a threat to shipping in the region.
The losses of multiple MQ-9 drones and an F/A-18E warplane by the United States underscore the complexities of military operations in Yemen. The ongoing air campaign against the Huthis continues to escalate, with significant impacts on global shipping routes. As the situation unfolds, the US military’s response highlights both the challenges and costs of maintaining security in a volatile region.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
