– US Navy warships in the Red Sea intercepting deadly anti-ship ballistic missiles fired by Iran-backed Houthis
– USS Carney was first US warship to intercept Houthi threats in the region, involved in dozens of engagements
– Carney also used SM-3 interceptors in the Mediterranean to shoot down an Iranian medium-range ballistic missile, completing a seven-month deployment
US Navy warships in the Red Sea have been intercepting deadly ballistic missiles fired by Iran-backed rebels, known as the Houthis. These anti-ship ballistic missiles are faster than anything encountered before, with some striking commercial vessels and causing civilian casualties. The guided-missile destroyer USS Carney has been actively involved in countering these threats since the conflict began in October 2023.
The USS Carney has conducted dozens of engagements, destroying various types of threats including anti-ship ballistic missiles, land-attack cruise missiles, and drones. The Houthis possess a significant arsenal of anti-ship ballistic missiles, some of which may have Iranian origins. US Central Command has not confirmed specific missiles used, but anti-ship missiles present a dynamic and fast threat that requires quick and precise response from US Navy sailors.
Throughout their deployment, warships like the USS Carney have faced and neutralized various threats with their systems working as intended. With tensions rising globally, anti-ship ballistic missile capabilities have become a critical focus for the US military. The ongoing conflicts provide valuable experience for the Navy in dealing with these dangerous weapons, valuable should a potential future conflict with adversaries arise. Over the course of their mission, the USS Carney defended against threats not only from the Houthis but also intercepted an Iranian medium-range missile in the Mediterranean Sea.
Upon successfully completing their deployment, the crew of the USS Carney received praise for their dedication and engagement during the mission. The complexity and risks associated with these engagements highlight the importance of continued training and readiness for the US Navy in combating evolving threats.