F/A-18 Jet Accident on USS Harry S. Truman Amid Houthi Tensions
An F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet went overboard while landing on the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier in the Red Sea on Tuesday, prompting the two pilots to eject and safely land via helicopter rescue. A defense official, who requested anonymity, confirmed the incident, stating that the jet’s "arrestment" system—used to secure landing aircraft—failed. The cause of the failure remains under investigation.
This mishap comes amid heightened tensions, as the USS Harry S. Truman plays a crucial role in the U.S. airstrike campaign against Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Earlier on Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump and Oman’s foreign minister announced a ceasefire agreement with the Houthis, aimed at preventing further attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea. However, the rebels have yet to confirm such an agreement. Concurrently, reports indicate the Houthis are evaluating the aftermath of recent Israeli airstrikes in their capital, Sanaa.
This incident marks the latest in a series of mishaps involving the Navy’s F/A-18s. In April, another jet slipped off the hangar deck into the Red Sea, while the USS Gettysburg accidentally shot down an F/A-18 in December. Additionally, the Truman has faced operational challenges, including a collision with a merchant vessel earlier this year.
The USS Harry S. Truman, based in Norfolk, Virginia, has seen extended deployments due to ongoing conflicts, recently joined by the USS Carl Vinson, which is operating out of the Arabian Sea. While no injuries were reported on the flight deck during the latest incident, the Navy continues to grapple with issues involving its costly fleet of fighter jets.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
