The U.S. Navy has confirmed that an F/A-18E Super Hornet fighter jet rolled off the side of the USS Harry S. Truman and sank to the bottom of the Red Sea, in a dramatic and costly mishap announced on Monday, April 28, 2025.
The incident occurred while the $70 million jet was being towed out of the aircraft carrier’s hangar bay. Officials say the move crew lost control of the fighter during the towing operation, causing both the jet and the tow tractor to plunge overboard.
Quick Action Saves Lives
At the time of the incident, one enlisted crew member was aboard the fighter jet and a second crew member was inside the tractor. Both individuals managed to jump clear before the aircraft fell overboard. One sailor sustained a minor injury, according to Navy officials.
In a statement, the Navy said:
“Sailors towing the aircraft took immediate action to move clear of the aircraft before it fell overboard. An investigation is underway.
The Navy has launched an extensive recovery operation in the Red Sea to retrieve the lost fighter jet.
Possible Houthi Attack Link?
Although the official cause remains under investigation, initial field reports suggest that a sudden movement of the carrier — potentially linked to incoming Houthi fire from Yemen — may have contributed to the loss of control. However, the Navy stressed that these reports remain unconfirmed.
The USS Harry S. Truman has been stationed in the Red Sea since September 2024, tasked with protecting vital commercial shipping routes from frequent Houthi rebel attacks.
This incident comes months after the carrier was involved in a collision with a merchant vessel near the Suez Canal, an event that resulted in the dismissal of the ship’s commanding officer.
Deployment Extended Amid Rising Tensions
The USS Harry S. Truman was originally scheduled to return to the U.S. last month. However, amid growing instability in the region, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth extended the carrier’s deployment. The USS Carl Vinson has also been sent to bolster U.S. naval strength in the region.
The Red Sea continues to be a strategic and volatile area, and the Navy’s commitment to ensuring maritime security remains critical.
