Sailors Aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Defend Against Ballistic Missiles, Drones, and Unmanned Vessels
In a display of unwavering dedication and bravery, sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower have been tirelessly defending against a barrage of threats at sea. For four consecutive months, these sailors have faced the daunting challenge of intercepting ballistic missiles and flying attack drones launched by Iranian-backed Houthis. However, their mission has taken an even more treacherous turn as they now find themselves defending against a new threat – fast unmanned vessels that are fired at them through the water.
While the Houthis have previously deployed unmanned surface vessels (USVs) against Saudi coalition forces in Yemen’s civil war, this marks the first time they have been used against U.S. military and commercial vessels in the Red Sea. In the weeks since the initial attack on January 4th, the Navy has been forced to intercept and destroy multiple USVs. Rear Adm. Marc Miguez, commander of Carrier Strike Group Two, expressed concern about this “unknown threat” that lacks substantial intelligence. He emphasized the potential lethality of unmanned surface vessels, as the Houthis possess the means to control them similar to unmanned aerial vehicles.
The conflict escalated after a deadly blast at the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza on October 17th, coinciding with the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. In response, the Houthis began targeting U.S. military and commercial vessels, vowing to continue until Israel ceases its military operations in Gaza. The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower has been on patrol since November 4th, with some accompanying ships present even earlier, since October.
During these months at sea, the Eisenhower’s fleet of fighter and surveillance aircraft has worked tirelessly to detect and intercept missiles and drones launched by the Houthis. The F/A-18 fighter jets are frequently deployed to neutralize missile sites before they can launch their deadly payloads. The carrier strike group, consisting of the cruiser USS Philippine Sea, destroyers USS Mason and Gravely, and additional U.S. Navy assets in the region, has conducted over 95 intercepts and made more than 240 self-defense strikes on Houthi targets. On Wednesday, the strike group successfully intercepted and destroyed seven anti-ship cruise missiles and thwarted another explosive USV preparing to launch in the Red Sea.
Captain Marvin Scott, commander of the carrier air wing’s eight squadrons of warplanes, emphasized the commitment to defending merchant vessels from Houthi threats. He stated, “We act in defense of those ships and strike them precisely and violently.” However, the evolving USV threat poses a significant concern. Rear Adm. Miguez described the scenario of a bomb-laden unmanned surface vessel approaching at high speeds as one of the most frightening possibilities. Immediate response becomes crucial to prevent potential devastation.
In a recent development, U.S. Central Command reported that the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Clarence Sutphin Jr. seized ballistic missile parts, USV components, and military-grade communications equipment from a vessel bound for Yemen on January 28th in the Arabian Sea. This highlights the ongoing efforts to counter the proliferation of dangerous weaponry in the region.
The constant combat pace without any days off or port calls has taken a toll on the sailors. Captain Christopher “Chowdah” Hill, commander of the Eisenhower, acknowledged the strain it places on the crew’s morale. However, the ship endeavors to uplift their spirits by reminding them of the significance of their mission. Additionally, sailors are provided with Wi-Fi access to stay connected with their families back home. This connection to loved ones becomes a source of solace amidst the challenging circumstances.
While the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower ensures Wi-Fi access for its sailors, the destroyers accompanying the carrier face bandwidth limitations, making it harder for their crews to stay in touch with home. Nevertheless, the sailors remain resilient and united. Joselyn Martinez, a second-class gunner’s mate aboard the destroyer Gravely, admitted that being away from home and constantly on guard at sea has been difficult. However, she emphasized the camaraderie among the crew, stating, “We have each other’s backs here.”
When a threat is detected, and the alarm sounds, directing the crew to respond, Martinez described it as a rush of adrenaline. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to defend her crew and ship, stating, “We just do what we come here to do.”
The dedication and bravery exhibited by the sailors aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and its accompanying warships are truly commendable. Their tireless efforts to protect against ballistic missiles, drones, and unmanned vessels reflect the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Navy to safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the safety of commercial vessels in the region.