US Navy Destroyer Thwarts Complex Houthi Attack in Red Sea
In a significant naval engagement last year, the USS Stockdale, a US Navy destroyer, successfully repelled a coordinated missile and drone attack by Houthi forces in the Red Sea. Vice Admiral Brad Cooper recently disclosed details of the intense battle, which occurred as the Stockdale was transitioning from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
The attack began around midnight with multiple ballistic missiles launched from Yemen toward the USS Stockdale. The ship’s crew effectively countered this initial assault. Shortly after, fighter jets from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln intercepted an anti-ship cruise missile, further demonstrating the US Navy’s defensive capabilities.
As the night progressed, Houthi forces continued their offensive with additional missile and drone launches. US forces responded swiftly, with fighter jets and warships destroying incoming threats and conducting retaliatory strikes within Yemen.
The most dramatic moment of the engagement came at approximately 2 a.m. when Stockdale’s crew detected a low-flying Houthi drone at the last minute. In a remarkable display of skill and readiness, the ship’s five-inch deck gun was employed to successfully shoot down the drone. Vice Admiral Cooper described this unexpected interception as a moment of celebration for the crew.
The MK-45 five-inch artillery gun, alongside surface-to-air missiles, has proven to be a crucial defensive asset for US Navy vessels like the Stockdale. These systems have been heavily relied upon during the ongoing conflict with Houthi forces.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of Houthi aggression in the region. Over the past 15 months, Houthi forces have targeted both commercial vessels and US Navy warships extensively. US forces have intercepted numerous Houthi drones and missiles during this period, underscoring the persistent threat in the area.
The Houthis claim their attacks are in support of Palestinians, though recent developments suggest a potential reduction in their Red Sea operations. The US administration’s stance on the Houthis, including their designation as a foreign terrorist organization, may influence future military strategies in the region.
As tensions continue to simmer in the Red Sea, the USS Stockdale’s successful defense against this complex attack highlights the ongoing challenges faced by US naval forces and the critical importance of maintaining readiness in this volatile region.
