The U.S. Navy lost another fighter jet in the Red Sea this week, marking the second aircraft accident aboard the USS Harry S. Truman in less than ten days.
According to Navy officials, the most recent incident occurred on Monday, when an F/A-18F Super Hornet crashed into the sea following a failed landing attempt. Both crew members—the pilot and weapons officer—ejected safely and were recovered with only minor injuries.
Last week, a separate F/A-18E rolled off the carrier’s deck while it was being moved on the hangar deck. That earlier mishap was reportedly the result of sudden evasive action taken as the ship responded to an incoming threat, believed to be from Houthi forces.
The Truman has been operating in the Red Sea in response to attacks on commercial and military vessels. Despite a ceasefire announced by President Trump on May 6 between U.S. forces and Houthi fighters, officials say the carrier was targeted again on the same day.
The two recent losses bring the total number of jets lost from the Truman in recent months to three, including a December incident involving friendly fire and a collision with a civilian ship in February.
Each Super Hornet is estimated to cost around $60 million, bringing the total value of lost aircraft to more than $180 million.
The Navy is investigating the latest crash, including the arresting gear system that failed to stop the landing jet. No timeline has been given for the results of the inquiry.
