Armed men stand on the beach as the Galaxy Leader commercial ship, seized by Yemen's Houthis last month, is anchored off the coast of al-Salif, Yemen, December 5, 2023. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah
Business Insider: US Navy admiral says ships in the Middle East are now facing a new challenge: Houthi drone boats packed with explosives
* The Houthis on Thursday launched an explosive drone boat into key waters off the coast of Yemen.
* A US Navy admiral said the drone detonated in international shipping lanes without causing harm.
* It's the first time the rebels have done this since they started attacking ships in November.
Houthi rebels have introduced a new and dangerous threat to commercial vessels, as well as US and allied warships, operating in key waterways off the coast of Yemen: drone boats packed with explosives.
Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, who leads US Naval Forces Central Command, said the Houthis on Thursday deployed a one-way attack unmanned surface vessel, or USV, for the first time since the Iran-backed militants started attacking ships in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and Gulf of Aden several weeks ago.
The Houthis originally launched the USV from Yemen and it transited around 15 miles into international shipping lanes "with the intent to do harm," Cooper told reporters. But the drone eventually detonated without hitting any ships or causing any casualties.
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WNU Editor: The Houthis are not going to de-escalate. This launch of a kamikaze sea drone against Red Sea shipping only confirms a gut feeling that the Houthis are spoiling for a fight against the West.
Yemen's Houthis Now Using Kamikaze Drone Ships
Houthis launch sea drone to attack ships hours after US, allies issue final warning -- AP
Explosives-Laden Houthi Boat Detonates in Red Sea -US Navy -- Reuters
Houthis launch another drone attack against Red Sea shipping lanes -- CNN
‘Packed with explosives’: Houthis launch unmanned vessel in Red Sea, fail to strike ships, US says -- Breaking Defense
Houthis claim hit on cargo ship in Red Sea but US official says drone ship missed -- Times of Israel
from War News Updates http://warnewsupdates.blogspot.com/2024/01/yemens-houthis-now-using-kamikaze-drone.html- Share about war news
The Houthi deployment of explosive drone boats in key waterways poses a concerning new threat to commercial and military vessels. The recent incident highlights the escalating tensions in the region, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and security measures. The situation calls for a careful evaluation of the evolving challenges posed by non-state actors in maritime operations. 🚢🌊
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