U.S. Navy F/A-18F from USS Harry S. Truman Shot Down by USS Gettysburg in Friendly Fire; Both Pilots Safe, One with Minor Injuries

Dec 22, 2024, 03:03 AM

On December 22, 2024, a U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet was shot down over the Red Sea in an apparent case of friendly fire. The incident involved the USS Gettysburg, a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser, which mistakenly fired a missile that brought down the fighter jet. Both pilots aboard the aircraft successfully ejected and were recovered, with one sustaining minor injuries. U.S. Central Command confirmed the incident, stating that the aviators are safe and recovering. The event has raised concerns regarding operational protocols, particularly in low-intensity environments, and may lead to further scrutiny within the Navy.