Lessons learned from the Navy's investigations into 4 mishaps during Houthi campaign

WASHINGTON The U.S. Navy released detailed reports on Thursday examining four separate incidents involving the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman while it was deployed to counter Houthi attacks on maritime traffic. The reports cover a friendly fire event, a collision with a commercial vessel, and two separate aircraft losses earlier this year. Together, they highlight the pressures faced by the carriers crew amid combat operations and routine operational demands.

Friendly Fire Incident

On December 22, 2024, the Truman launched its first defensive action against Houthi forces. During the operation, other ships in the strike group defended against anti-ship missiles and attack drones. The cruiser USS Gettysburg mistakenly fired at two F/A-18F jets from the Truman, downing one. The report criticized Gettysburgs crew for insufficient training and overreliance on technology. One jets crew ejected safely, while the second jet narrowly avoided impact.

Collision with a Merchant Ship

In February, the Truman collided with a commercial vessel near the Suez Canal while returning from a port visit. Investigators found that a combination of tight schedules and a just get it done mentality led to risky navigation. The officer in charge failed to take adequate action to avoid the collision, while senior officers, including the ships commander and navigator, were found partly responsible for not fully recognizing the hazards of the maneuver.

Aircraft Lost Overboard

After returning to the Red Sea, the carrier continued intensive combat operations, flying almost daily since March 15. One F/A-18F jet slid off the deck during a sharp maneuver to avoid a Houthi missile. Investigators noted that the hangar floor was unusually dirty and slippery due to high operational tempo, preventing proper maintenance and routine cleaning. The aircrafts brakes failed to engage fully, leading the investigation to recommend revoking the qualifications of the responsible sailor for insufficient system knowledge.

Cable Failure During Landing

In May 2025, another F/A-18F jet went overboard while landing. The investigation revealed that a crucial cable designed to halt the jet snapped due to poor maintenance. A connecting pin, critical for the arresting gears function, was missing, causing the system to fail gradually over multiple landings. Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander of the Truman strike group, called the incident entirely preventable, citing failures in leadership and maintenance oversight. Investigators also highlighted the challenge of balancing operational demands with equipment upkeep.

Overall, the investigations depict a carrier and crew under intense stress from constant combat operations, operational pressures, and insufficient maintenance resources, contributing to a series of serious mishaps.

Author: Olivia Parker