Days ago, U.S. Navy destroyers were once again targeted by Houthi drone attacks while transiting the Gulf of Aden escorting three merchant vessels owned, operated, and flagged by the United States. A statement from U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) reported that the attacks caused no injuries or damage to any vessels, civilians, or U.S. Navy ships.
The incident, which occurred between December 9 and 10, involved the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and USS O’Kane (DDG 77). The ships’ defense systems successfully intercepted one-way unmanned aerial vehicles and a cruise missile while escorting civilian merchant ships. It should be emphasized that the presence of these military vessels is part of ongoing operations to secure and protect maritime routes in the Gulf of Aden under Operation Prosperity Guardian. This multinational coalition of naval forces operates in the Middle East to ensure the safety of both merchant and military vessels following the events of October 7, 2023, in Israel.
This marks the third instance in which the USS Stockdale (DDG 106) has been involved in attacks by Houthi rebel forces. In November, it was part of another incident while exiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait into the Gulf of Aden alongside another destroyer. Earlier, in September, the USS Stockdale, USS Spruance (DDG-111), and the littoral combat ship USS Indianapolis (LCS-17) were also targeted by Houthi attacks while participating in Operation Prosperity Guardian.
The Gulf of Aden, which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, is one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. Its strategic importance has made the region a critical point for global security, with frequent incidents involving piracy and armed conflict. In this context, U.S. Navy operations play a vital role in ensuring the free flow of goods and resources through these waters.
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