In a decisive display of military capability, U.S. Navy destroyers USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and USS O’Kane (DDG 77) thwarted a series of Houthi-launched attacks while transiting the Gulf of Aden between November 30 and December 1, 2024.
The destroyers were escorting three U.S.-owned, operated, and flagged merchant vessels at the time of the assaults, which resulted in no injuries or damage to any vessels.
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The U.S. ships intercepted and neutralized a variety of threats, including:
- Three anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBMs)
- Three one-way attack uncrewed aerial systems (OWA UAS)
- One anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM)
The swift and effective response ensured the safety of both the merchant ships and their personnel, as well as the naval forces involved in the operation.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) emphasized that these actions underscore its ongoing commitment to protecting U.S. personnel, allies, and international maritime commerce from aggressive acts in the region. The attacks, attributed to Iran-backed Houthi forces, highlight persistent threats to security in the Gulf of Aden, a critical chokepoint for global trade.
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The Gulf of Aden, situated between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa, remains a hotspot for geopolitical tensions. The Houthi movement, which has received support from Iran, has escalated its use of advanced weaponry to target shipping routes and military vessels in the region.
The intercepted ballistic missiles and drones in this incident signal the continued sophistication of Houthi capabilities, adding urgency to international efforts to counter such threats.
This successful defensive operation reinforces the strategic importance of CENTCOM’s presence in the region and its ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats. It also sends a strong message to adversaries about U.S. resolve in safeguarding international maritime operations.
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