NEWS REPORT:
Another F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet deployed from the USS Harry S. Truman has crashed into the Red Sea — the second such incident in just over a week, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter who spoke to CNN.
Preliminary reports suggest a possible arrestment gear failure occurred as the aircraft attempted to land on the carrier. Both the pilot and weapons systems officer ejected safely and were retrieved by a rescue helicopter. While both survived, they sustained minor injuries.
The jet has not yet been recovered from the sea.
This latest incident follows a string of operational troubles surrounding the USS Truman’s Red Sea deployment. Just a week ago, another F/A-18 jet fell overboard after the carrier reportedly executed a hard turn to evade missile fire from Iran-backed Houthi rebels. That incident also led to a total loss of the aircraft, which is valued at over $60 million.
Compounding the situation, sources revealed that the Houthi rebel group recently “took a shot” at the Truman on Tuesday, despite earlier claims by former President Donald Trump of a ceasefire with the group. The relationship between that threat and the latest crash remains unclear as investigations continue.
The Office of the Secretary of Defense deferred inquiries to the Navy and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), both of whom have yet to comment publicly.
The USS Truman’s deployment has been riddled with mishaps. In December 2023, another F/A-18 was accidentally targeted and shot down by the USS Gettysburg. In February 2024, the carrier collided with a merchant vessel near Egypt, leading to the dismissal of its then-commander, Captain Dave Snowden. He was replaced by Captain Christopher Hill.
U.S. naval forces in the Red Sea continue to face persistent threats from Houthi missiles, with some coming within seconds of impact. The challenges now extend beyond hostile fire — raising questions about equipment integrity, procedural safety, and command oversight aboard the USS Truman.
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