Houthis Attack Ship with Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile
Yemeni Houthis Fire Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile in Bab el-Mandeb Strait
Yemeni Houthi forces recently fired an anti-ship ballistic missile into the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. This resulted in a ship being hit in the incident.
According to the US Central Command, the incident took place on December 15. Houthi forces made contact with a Liberian-flagged motor ship named MSC ALANYA, threatening to attack the ship. The Houthis directed the ship to change course, but the ship continued north. At that time, no US ships were in the area, but US forces maintained direct communication with the ship. The ship continued to travel safely.
Later, Houthi forces launched a UAV that hit another ship, the Liberian-flagged motor ship AL JASRAH. The crew on board reported a fire, but it has since been extinguished.
In a further attack, Houthi forces launched two ballistic missiles toward international shipping lanes in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, hitting the Liberian-flagged MSC PALATIUM 3, which issued a distress signal. The USS MASON responded to the call for help.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries on any of the three ships attacked. However, this series of attacks indicates the danger Houthi actions pose to international shipping.
An anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) is a type of ballistic missile designed specifically for use against ships. These missiles have high speed, maneuverability, and a guidance system that enables engagement with moving sea targets. China, Russia, India, and Iran have all made significant advancements in ASBMs, with Iran reportedly supplying weapons to the Houthi forces. The United States is working on using laser weapons to destroy ASBMs.
This incident serves as a confirmation of Iran’s Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile capability, given the weapons shipments to the Houthi forces. The use of ASBMs poses a significant threat to maritime security, and efforts to counter these advancements continue to be a priority for many countries, including the United States.
Source: DefenseSanayiST.com
