The U.S. has suffered the loss of seven MQ-9 drones in Yemen since mid-March, alongside an F/A-18E warplane accident involving the USS Harry S. Truman. Military operations against the Houthis have escalated, impacting international shipping.
In a troubling turn for the U.S. military, seven MQ-9 Reaper drones have been lost in the Yemen area since March 15, according to a U.S. official speaking under anonymity. The Reaper drones, valued at approximately $30 million each, play a dual role—conducting reconnaissance and striking operations against Yemen’s Houthi rebels. This announcement comes alongside a separate incident where an F/A-18E warplane fell off the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier into the Red Sea.
The tragic loss of the F/A-18E, which exceeds $67 million in cost, occurred due to an accident while the jet was being towed in the hangar bay. An unexpected loss of control by the crew when attempting to move the aircraft led to its plunging overboard. The Navy confirmed that while one sailor sustained injuries, investigations are underway regarding the mishap and no recovery details have been provided yet.
This marks the second F/A-18E lost in less than six months, following another that was accidentally shot down by the USS Gettysburg last year, although both pilots survived that incident. The USS Truman, among two U.S. carriers stationed in the Middle East, continues active operations against Houthi targets, having struck over 800 and killing numerous fighters since mid-March.
The intensification of military operations comes as Houthi forces ramp up attacks against shipping in the Red Sea, allegedly in support of Palestinian solidarity amidst recent conflicts. These strikes have critically impacted shipping routes, notably contributing to delays in the Suez Canal, which ordinarily handles around 12% of global trade traffic, as vessels reroute around Africa to avoid the threat.
President Biden initiated strikes against the Houthi forces, pledging to counter their disruptions to maritime activity. Previously, former President Trump also committed to using military intervention to ensure the rebels cease their activities affecting shipping lanes.
The U.S. military has lost seven MQ-9 drones in Yemen, coinciding with an F/A-18E mishap off an aircraft carrier. Ongoing strikes have targeted Houthi fighters, illustrating escalating tensions in the region. The damaged shipping routes, impacted by Houthi activities, pose serious concerns for international trade. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have focused on military actions to ensure maritime security against these threats.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
