What You Need to Know: The Houthi Missile Incident and Its Implications for U.S. Naval Operations

In June 2023, a significant incident unfolded in the Red Sea that underscored the evolving threat posed by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. A missile launched by the Houthis came alarmingly close to the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), missing the aircraft carrier by a mere 200 meters. This event not only highlighted the growing capabilities of the Houthis in targeting U.S. naval assets but also raised critical questions about the safety and security of American forces operating in volatile regions.

The Incident: A Close Call for the Eisenhower

The missile incident, which occurred while the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower was conducting operations in the Red Sea, was a stark reminder of the persistent threats faced by U.S. naval forces. Although the missile did not strike the carrier, the near-miss emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness among U.S. military personnel. The incident was part of a broader trend, as similar close calls had been reported earlier in the year, including a January incident where a missile nearly hit the USS Gravely (DDG-107).

While no U.S. Navy aircraft carrier has been sunk in combat since World War II, the potential for significant damage and loss of life from such missile strikes cannot be underestimated. A report from the United States Military Academy’s Combating Terrorism Center indicated that the missile came within striking distance of the Eisenhower, raising alarms about the effectiveness of current defensive measures against such threats.

Analyzing Houthi Capabilities

Michael Knights, a fellow at The Washington Institute for Near East Policy, provided insight into the capabilities of the Houthi militia in a recent article for CTC Sentinel. He noted that the Houthis have developed a sophisticated approach to targeting, utilizing wide-area surveillance, close-in target shadowing, and terminal guidance systems. This combination has enabled them to achieve remarkable accuracy, as evidenced by the near-miss on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Knights explained that the missile reportedly approached the carrier at a shallow trajectory, offering minimal warning and leaving little opportunity for interception. Such advancements in missile technology and targeting techniques pose a significant challenge for U.S. naval forces, which must remain vigilant and prepared to respond to evolving threats.

The Houthis’ Claims and U.S. Response

Following the missile incident, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that the group had successfully targeted the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. This assertion was accompanied by images circulating on social media that purported to show damage to the carrier. While many of these posts were intended as satire, Iranian state media reported the strikes as factual, further complicating the narrative surrounding the incident.

In response, the U.S. Navy launched a social media campaign to counter Houthi disinformation, showcasing the continued operational readiness of the carrier, including lighthearted posts about "Taco Tuesdays." This effort aimed to reassure both the public and military personnel that the Eisenhower remained fully operational despite the missile threat.

Ongoing Naval Operations and Preparedness

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower was deployed to the Eastern Mediterranean in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict and to address Houthi missile attacks on Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. After a month of heightened tensions, the carrier returned to Naval Station Norfolk in July 2023.

The U.S. Navy has continued to rotate aircraft carriers in the region to maintain a robust presence. Currently, the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) is stationed in the area, while the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) recently returned to San Diego after an extended deployment. The USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) is also actively engaged in joint operations with NATO allies in the North Sea, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to maintaining readiness and deterrence in various theaters of operation.

Conclusion: The Need for Vigilance

The missile incident involving the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower serves as a critical reminder of the evolving threats faced by U.S. naval forces, particularly from non-state actors like the Houthi militia. As these groups continue to develop their capabilities, the U.S. Navy must remain vigilant and adaptive, ensuring that its defensive measures are robust enough to counter potential missile threats.

The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, coupled with the Houthis’ demonstrated targeting capabilities, necessitate a proactive approach to naval operations. As the U.S. Navy continues to navigate these challenges, the importance of maintaining a strong and ready presence in the region cannot be overstated.

Author Experience and Expertise: Peter Suciu

Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer with over 20 years of experience in journalism. He has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers, and websites, focusing on military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is a contributing writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs, and you can follow him on Twitter @PeterSuciu.

Image Credit: The image above is of a faked Houthi picture of a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier on fire. All others are Creative Commons.