An F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet launched from the USS Harry S. Truman, a United States Navy aircraft carrier, has crashed during an operational flight over the Red Sea. This marks the second jet lost from the same carrier within a week.
According to an exclusive report by CNN based on reliable sources, the F/A-18 Super Hornet crashed into the Red Sea due to a technical malfunction during landing. Two separate sources confirmed that the aircraft experienced a system failure while attempting to land, prompting the pilot and the weapons systems officer to eject from the aircraft. Both crew members were rescued and sustained only minor injuries.
A rescue helicopter was immediately dispatched and safely recovered the two crew members, returning them to the ship. However, the fighter jet sank and the wreckage has yet to be located.
Second Loss from the Same Carrier Within a Week
This latest incident follows the loss of another F/A-18 from the same aircraft carrier last week. The first crash reportedly occurred during a sudden evasive manoeuvre to avoid a Houthi attack. According to naval sources, each F/A-18 Super Hornet costs over $60 million.
Houthi Attacks Continue: Truman Targeted Despite Ceasefire
On the day of the incident, it was also reported that Iranian-backed Houthi militants opened fire on the Truman aircraft carrier. Five separate sources indicated that, despite a temporary ceasefire announced the same day by U.S. President Donald Trump, the Houthis continued their attacks. However, it remains unclear whether there is a direct link between the jet crash and the assault.
The Department of Defence has referred all comments on the incident to officials from the U.S. Navy and Central Command (CENTCOM), while CNN has yet to obtain an official statement.
USS Harry S. Truman Facing Turbulent Times
The USS Harry S. Truman has made headlines frequently in recent months due to a string of mishaps. In December 2024, the carrier lost another jet due to an accidental discharge. That aircraft also crashed into the Red Sea, with the crew ejecting safely.
In February 2025, the carrier collided with a commercial vessel off the coast of Egypt in the Mediterranean. Following the incident, the Truman’s commanding officer, Captain Dave Snowden, was relieved of duty and replaced by Captain Christopher Hill.
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