US Navy Destroys Houthi Drone In The Red Sea To Ensure Maritime Security

The U.S. military has acted decisively to protect maritime security in the Red Sea region in reaction to recent events involving Houthi rebel operations in Yemen. Two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were launched from Houthi-controlled territories toward the Red Sea on March 16 between 7:50 and 8:15 a.m. (Sanaa time).

One UAV was successfully intercepted and destroyed by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) personnel; the other is thought to have crashed into the Red Sea. There were no reports of casualties or damage to nearby ships.

Following this action, between 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. (Sanaa time), CENTCOM destroyed five unmanned surface vessels and another UAV in Houthi-controlled territory. These weapons were considered an immediate threat to nearby merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships, so the decision was made in self-defence.

These kinds of activities highlight the continuous efforts to protect the right to free passage and guarantee the security of international seas for all marine traffic.

The Houthi rebel group’s relentless attacks in the Red Sea have caused interruptions in global shipping lines, forcing businesses to reroute vessels via longer and more expensive routes around Southern Africa.

According to reports, the Houthis have gotten a new hypersonic missile that is said to be more powerful than their previous arsenal. This missile, capable of reaching Mach 8 speeds and powered by solid propellants, is said to be planned for use against targets in the Red Sea and maybe Israel.

According to claims made by a military official close to the Houthis, published by Russia’s official news agency RIA Novosti, the Houthis intend to produce and use the hypersonic missile in certain areas, including the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, as well as possibly against targets in Israel.

However, The Houthis haven’t publicly acknowledged that they own such weapons. Notably, Fattah, a hypersonic missile, is reportedly owned by Iran, a major ally of the Houthi rebels.

The U.S. military’s latest moves demonstrate a proactive strategy to counter the security risks posed by the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea region. These actions are intended to preserve stability in international seas, protect vessel safety, and safeguard critical maritime routes amid rising regional tensions.

Reference: Reuters

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