United States F/A-18E/F Fleet Update

United States - United States Navy

Date Dec. 22, 2024
Country 🇺🇸 United States
Force United States Navy
Aircraft F/A-18E/F (F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet)
Change -1 active

Description

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from VFA-11 Red Rippers was shot down by an SM-2 missile fired by USS Gettysburg while conducting aerial refueling operations in the Red Sea. The cruiser mistakenly identified the friendly aircraft as a Houthi anti-ship cruise missile during intense enemy activity. Both crew members ejected and were recovered, with one sustaining minor injuries. A Navy investigation found substandard watchstanding practices and lack of integrated training contributed to the misidentification. The commanding officer of USS Gettysburg was relieved of command in January 2025.

Source

F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet Combat photo
Boeing F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet Combat profile drawing