A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet crashed into the Red Sea on Wednesday after an arresting-gear malfunction during landing operations aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, marking the second such loss from the carrier in recent weeks.

Both the pilot and weapons systems officer ejected safely and were rescued by a Navy helicopter, suffering only minor injuries, according to defense officials.

The incident occurred in international waters in the southern Red Sea when the jet’s arresting hook failed to engage the carrier’s wires, forcing the crew to eject. The Super Hornet sank quickly, and salvage efforts have so far been unsuccessful. The U.S. Navy and Central Command (CENTCOM) have launched an investigation, but no official statement on the cause has been released.

This crash comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Yemen’s Houthi-aligned Armed Forces (YAF) claiming responsibility for downing a similar aircraft last week. The YAF has targeted the USS Harry S. Truman in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Yemeni territory, though it’s unclear if their actions contributed to this incident.

The USS Harry S. Truman has faced multiple setbacks recently. In December, a Super Hornet was lost to friendly fire during operations with the USS Gettysburg. In February, the carrier collided with a civilian vessel near Egyptian waters, resulting in the relief of its former commanding officer. Captain Christopher Hill, who assumed command after the collision, has prioritized safety reviews and enhanced landing protocols.

Each F/A-18 Super Hornet costs over $60 million, raising concerns about the financial and strategic toll of these losses. Naval analysts are questioning maintenance practices, pilot training, and risk management in the high-threat Red Sea environment.

CENTCOM is working with coalition partners to secure shipping lanes and maintain freedom of navigation, while Navy teams assess whether the sunken jet can be recovered. The incidents underscore the challenges of sustaining U.S. naval operations amid regional hostilities and highlight ongoing efforts to ensure crew safety and equipment readiness. (ILKHA)