US Navy Destroyer Intercepts Closest Houthi Missile Strike With CIWS

A Houthi anti-ship cruise missile came within a mile of a US Navy destroyer, and this has been the closest Houthi strike on a US vessel to have occurred on the 30th of Jan, Tuesday night, in the Red Sea. The missile arrived at an exceptionally close range, forcing the vessel to revert to its last line of defence. The USS Gravely, the targeted destroyer, successfully shot it down with its Close-In Weapon System (CIWS).

The incident, which occurred despite earlier intercepts by US destroyers at more considerable distances, highlights the ongoing threat that the Houthi rebels represent to US naval vessels and commercial ships in the Red Sea. This was the first time since late last year the CIWS, an automatic machine gun intended for close-range intercepts, was put into action in reaction to Houthi missiles.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin criticised the reckless and illegal attacks against US warships and commercial vessels in the area to Iranian support and supply of advanced weaponry to the Houthis. Experts expressed concerns over the missile’s proximity to the USS Gravely, highlighting the difficulty US warships have in fighting against rapid threats in constricted waterways.

Tom Karako, the Center for Strategic and International Studies Director of the Missile Defense Project, expressed his concern about the occurrence and highlighted how commanders have limited time to make decisions when faced with such close-range threats. The Houthis, who have received substantial backing from Iran, are still launching drones and missiles into the Red Sea, endangering marine activities.

The US Central Command announced the successful destruction of a surface-to-air missile that was a threat to US aircraft in the area in response to the increased threats. Additionally, US airstrikes have targeted a drone ground control centre in Yemen as well as Houthi drones. The military operations are part of a more extensive campaign to weaken the Houthi group’s weaponry and stop them from attacking international shipping routes and US warships.

Iran-backed militants just launched a drone attack in Jordan, and the US is currently evaluating how to respond to it, taking into account possible cyberattacks or strikes that could target particular Iranian targets. US officials have emphasised their intention to prevent escalation and have highlighted their unwillingness to engage in a military battle with Iran despite the escalating tensions.

Reference: CNN, Business Insider

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Source: Maritime Shipping News