Friendly Fire Crisis: Lessons from the Navy's Red Sea Incident

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:00

On 22 December 2024, a US Navy F-A-18 Super Hornet was shot down, not by an enemy, but by a devastating Blue on Blue friendly fire incident. It was a moment that shook one of the most advanced naval and air forces in the world. How could this happen and what can we learn to prevent it from happening again? This incident occurred during the high-stakes operations in the Red Sea, a region that has become increasingly dangerous. As you know, houthi rebels have frequently been targeting commercial shipping with drones and missiles, making this area a flashpoint for conflict. In response, the US Navy, alongside its allies, have been patrolling these waters to protect vital shipping lanes. Operating in such a tense and confined space demands precision and flawless communication, but on that fateful December night, a series of missteps led to disaster. Here's what we know so far and the lessons we must learn. The USS Harry Truman had just entered the Red Sea in support of Operation Prosperity Guardian and soon began launching precision airstrikes while its escort ships were repelling Houthi attacks. These factors of just entering the area, beginning up-tempo operations while also dealing with incoming fire, likely heavily contributed to the Blue on Blue incident. Still, how did one of the Navy's guided missile cruisers mistake a friendly Super Hornet for a threat, and what happened next may surprise you. This wasn't the only close call that night. The incident as the Super Hornet approached its carrier, the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly identified it as a threat, despite the jet broadcasting its IFF or Identify Friend or Foe signals. A misclassification in the missile defense system led to a catastrophic error. A surface-to-air missile likely an SM-2, was fired. Thankfully, the Super Hornet's crew ejected in time but survived with minor injuries. Of course, the aircraft was destroyed, leaving everyone asking the same question how could this happen? Now here's where it gets even more alarming. We're recently learning that just moments later, a second missile was fired, this time apparently at another Super Hornet flying nearby. This second jet barely escaped, taking evasive maneuvers that caused the missile to miss by only 100 feet. This second close call nearly turned one tragedy into two. There are some reports surfacing now that the USS Gettysburg turned off the guidance system on the second missile, which could explain why it missed.

Speaker 1: 2:46

The fact that the same cruiser almost shot down two friendly jets raises serious concerns about the reliability of our missile defense systems and communications protocols, and while the Navy's investigation is ongoing, we already know enough to draw some important lessons. The Navy's preliminary report highlights several key failures. First, communications breakdowns Vital information wasn't relayed in time. Second, misclassification by the missile system the jet's IFF signals weren't recognized correctly. And third, lack of redundancy in identification protocols Backup systems failed to prevent the misfire. This chain of errors reveals just how complex and dangerous modern warfare can be, even when fighting an unconventional enemy like the Houthis. Lessons learned In response to this incident?

Speaker 1: 3:37

The Navy has announced several steps to ensure this doesn't happen again. Number one enhanced IFF technology Upgrades to ensure friendly aircraft are always correctly identified. Number two stricter communication protocols. Better coordination between air and surface forces to prevent misunderstandings. Number three, and perhaps most important, comprehensive training, new drills that are designed to simulate these exact scenarios, giving crews the skills to respond under pressure. Hopefully, these measures aim to not only address the immediate issues, but also set a higher standard for military aviation and surface warfare. Friendly fire is a tragic reality of warfare and it's not a new problem. From ancient battlefields to today's high-tech military operations. Such incidents remind us of the critical importance of communication technology and training. Hopefully, the downing of the Super Hornet is a wake-up call. Operating in the narrow, volatile waters of the Red Sea is challenging enough without the added risk of friendly fire. By addressing the factors that led to this incident, the Navy can turn this tragedy into an opportunity for growth, making the skies and seas safer for our warfighters. Until then, keep those radar warning receivers powered up. And now you know? Pilotphotogcom.