The investigation revealed how the aircraft carrier "Truman" lost a second aircraft during its deployment in the Red Sea.
The sharp maneuver of the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier, which was evading an enemy missile strike, resulted in the loss of an F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet worth $60 million. The aircraft, along with a towing tractor, slipped off the deck and fell into the Red Sea. This was confirmed by an official investigation by the US Navy, writes Business Insider.
The incident occurred on April 28 during combat operations against the Houthis in Yemen. "Truman" and its strike group were operating in a region where rebels have been attacking shipping corridors for over a year.
According to the investigation, the aircraft carrier made a sharp evasive turn after reports of a possible medium-range ballistic missile launch. At that moment, the F/A-18 was being towed into the hangar beneath the flight deck.
The crew did not hear the announcement about the maneuver and was caught off guard when the ship tilted sharply. The aircraft's brakes were engaged but malfunctioning - the fighter began to roll uncontrollably backward.
Slippery Deck and Malfunctioning Brakes
After the sailors removed the chocks and chains for moving the aircraft, the "Super Hornet" rolled toward the edge of the deck, dragging the tractor with it. A sailor who was in the cabin managed to jump out, sustaining only minor injuries.
The investigation identified several critical issues:
malfunctioning brakes of the F/A-18;
lack of proper communication between the bridge and the hangar deck;
worn anti-slip coating on the deck, which had not been updated since 2018.
