Over the past 15 months, U.S. Navy forces in the Red Sea have confronted more than 400 aerial threats from Iran-backed Houthi forces, including drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles. The extent of this campaign, disclosed by Vice Adm. Brendan McLane, head of Naval Surface Forces, during the Surface Navy Association conference, gives insight into the rate at which surface-to-air munitions are depleting.
The U.S. Central Command’s involvement in the region has been marked by increased use of counter-UAS measures. Of the munitions expended, the Navy deployed a range of interceptors and weapons systems as part of layered defenses against aerial threats.
These included:
- SM-2 and SM-6 missiles: Versatile surface-to-air interceptors capable of engaging high-altitude threats.
- Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles: Designed for close-to-medium range aerial defense.
- Five-inch guns aboard destroyers and cruisers: Traditionally used for surface and shore targets but increasingly applied in air defense roles.
Vice Adm. McLane highlighted the USS Spruance, which intercepted multiple threats during its recent deployment with the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group. The Spruance alone engaged three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles and seven drones. McLane described the coordination and decision-making occurring in the ship’s Combat Information Center as unprecedented, testing personnel in ways not previously seen.
The surge in the Navy’s use of counter-UAS defenses stems from Houthi actions starting in October 2023, which have targeted commercial and military vessels transiting the Red Sea. These attacks are part of the Houthis’ stated support for Palestinian militant group Hamas. Navy leaders emphasized the importance of analytical and collaborative advances across operational communities, which they believe will enhance preparedness for future conflicts.
However, the high rate of munitions expenditure has sparked concerns among military leaders about strained stockpiles. These resources are seen as vital for potential engagements in the Pacific. Congress has been approached for additional funding to replenish these depleted stocks.
Post Image – The USS Spruance fires an SM-2 missile in a live-fire exercise (Post Image Credit: U.S. Navy)
