Military

published : 2023-11-29

US Navy Warship Shoots Down Iranian-made Houthi Drone in Yemen

USS Carney Successfully Defends Against Multiple Attacks

Aerial view of the USS Carney in action, taken with a Nikon D850 camera

The U.S. Navy destroyer, USS Carney, has successfully intercepted an Iranian-made Houthi drone launched from Yemen, according to military officials.

The drone was shot down near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and fortunately, there were no injuries or damage to the warship or its crew.

This incident comes after the USS Carney successfully defended against a series of attacks launched from Yemen, including 15 drones and four cruise missiles, during a nine-hour span in the northern Red Sea last month.

Using its SM-2 surface-to-air missiles, the USS Carney neutralized the threats, showcasing its advanced capabilities.

However, unlike the recent drone, which was targeted in self-defense, the previous missiles were intercepted to protect the city of Eilat in Israel.

USS Carney sailors directing the SM-2 surface-to-air missiles towards an incoming threat, taken with a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera

This bravery and quick response from the USS Carney demonstrated the Navy's commitment to defending its assets and allies in the region.

The attempted drone strike is just the latest in a series of threats from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.

Only a day prior, an Iranian drone flew perilously close to the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier while it was conducting flight operations in international waters in the Arabian Gulf.

This dangerous encounter violated safety precautions, as the drone failed to maintain the required distance of more than 10 nautical miles from the ship.

Despite multiple warnings issued to the drone, it persistently approached before finally turning away.

Navy Vice Adm. Brad Cooper addressing the media about the USS Carney's successful defense, taken with a Sony A7R III camera

Earlier this month, another of the Navy's destroyers, the USS Thomas Hudner, successfully shot down a drone that was heading towards the ship in the southern Red Sea.

The USS Carney and the USS Thomas Hudner's presence in these crucial areas reflects the heightened tension resulting from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

With the Red Sea serving as a significant trade route for global shipping and energy supplies, these naval deployments play a vital role in maintaining stability and safeguarding international interests.

As the situation evolves, the U.S. Navy remains vigilant and committed to protecting its vessels, allies, and the free flow of commerce in this vital region.