A recent investigation into a friendly fire incident involving the US Navy in December 2024 has revealed critical details about the tragic event that took place over the Red Sea. A US Navy fighter jet was mistakenly shot down by the USS Gettysburg, an American cruiser, while another jet narrowly avoided a similar fate.
Navy Warship Mistakenly Fires on US Fighter Jets
On December 22, 2024, the USS Gettysburg launched surface-to-air missiles at two F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets. The crew mistook the aircraft for anti-ship cruise missiles allegedly fired by Houthi rebels in Yemen. This catastrophic mistake led to one jet being shot down while the second narrowly escaped destruction.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred just a week after the Gettysburg entered the Red Sea as part of an operational strike group led by the USS Harry S. Truman. The strike group’s deployment began in September 2024 amidst ongoing assaults on shipping routes by Houthi forces.
- Date: December 22, 2024
- Location: Red Sea
- Warship: USS Gettysburg
- Fighter Jets: F/A-18 Super Hornets (part of Strike Fighter Squadron 11)
The investigation notes that both the pilot and weapons officer of the downed fighter jet managed to eject safely, avoiding fatal injuries. In contrast, the second aircraft was targeted, but the crew successfully outmaneuvered the missile.
Investigation Findings
The command investigation highlighted several failures leading to this tragic incident:
- Shortcomings in the planning process.
- Deficiencies in the Gettysburg’s combat systems.
- Potential crew fatigue.
Investigators also identified significant degradation in the Gettysburg’s interoperability systems. Issues impacted the ship’s network management, mission engagement, and overall situational awareness.
Previous Incidents
This friendly fire incident was not an isolated case. Earlier in the conflict, a German warship mistakenly targeted a US MQ-9 Reaper drone. Other incidents in the Truman strike group involved collisions and aircraft accidents during the deployment.
Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jim Kilby stated the Navy is committed to learning from these events, emphasizing the importance of investing in personnel to maintain battle readiness.
This tragic incident underscores the critical need for improved communication and operational protocols within military engagements to prevent future misunderstandings and ensure the safety of all personnel involved.
