U.S. CENTCOM Forces Conduct Self-Defense Strikes Against Red Sea Threats

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces launched two self-defence strikes in the Red Sea on February 29, 2024, in reaction to a spike in regional tensions. CENTCOM targeted six mobile anti-ship cruise missiles that were ready to be launched toward the Red Sea between 6 and 7:15 p.m. (Sanaa time). They also took down an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over the southern Red Sea at approximately 5:10 p.m.

These measures were taken to safeguard nearby merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships from missile and unmanned aerial vehicle threats. As per CENTCOM, these actions aimed to protect the freedom of navigation and enhance the security of global waterways for trade and military vessels alike.

The incident takes place after earlier encounters in the region. Five Iranian-backed Houthi one-way attack (OWA) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were intercepted by U.S. aircraft and a coalition vessel on February 28, 2024, in the Red Sea between 9:50 and 10:55 p.m. (Sanaa time). Similarly, CENTCOM forces stepped on the defensive after these UAVs were thought to pose a threat to coalition ships, U.S. Navy, and merchant vessels in the area.

These recent events take place amid ongoing conflict, as Houthi fighters have been attacking military and commercial ships since November. The coalition and American forces’ operations are part of more significant initiatives to preserve maritime security and guarantee unhindered navigation in international waterways.

Reference: Centcom

U.S. CENTCOM Forces Conduct Self-Defense Strikes Against Red Sea Threats appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News