U.S. Fighter Jets Intercept Houthi Drones Targeting Navy Carrier Strike Group

On Sunday, American fighter jets intercepted several Houthi drones over the Red Sea following an attack by the Yemeni group on the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. This incident represents the initial occasion in over two months that Houthis have aimed at U.S. Navy vessels.

A U.S. official reported that the Houthis launched 11 drones and one ballistic missile targeting the strike group. The assault began just after midnight local time on March 16 and continued for approximately 12 hours. U.S. Air Force jets successfully intercepted and shot down all drones before they could reach their intended targets. The ballistic missile landed in the water, not presenting any immediate danger to the vessels.

The assault occurred one-day following airstrikes by the Truman Carrier Strike Group on Houthi positions in Yemen, encompassing sites in the capital, Sana’a. Local health officials have confirmed a minimum of 98 casualties resulting from the strikes. In a televised address, Houthi leader Abdel-Malik al-Houthi cautioned that ongoing U.S. military actions would lead to increased tensions.

Since late 2023, the U.S. Navy has successfully intercepted numerous drones and missiles launched by the Houthis, which were targeting both commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The assaults started during the continuing Israel-Gaza conflict, as the Houthis announced their aim to interfere with maritime traffic in reaction to the war. After a ceasefire was established between Israel and Hamas in January, Houthi attacks had momentarily ceased. Last week, the group declared its intention to resume targeting ships in response to an Israeli blockade that is limiting aid to Gaza.

In December 2024, the Truman Carrier Strike Group made its way into the Red Sea, participating in various defensive and offensive operations prior to the temporary cessation of hostilities. In December, amidst a fierce combat situation, a U.S. Navy ship inadvertently shot down an American F/A-18F fighter jet while attempting to intercept incoming Houthi drones. Both pilots emerged from the incident unscathed.

U.S. officials have reiterated their dedication to safeguarding international waters and addressing threats to naval forces in the area.

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