Gettysburg Friendly Fire Incident Raises Alarm Over Training, Systems

The USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down a U.S. F/A-18F Super Hornet on Dec. 22, during operations targeting Houthi rebel positions in the Red Sea. The friendly fire incident has raised questions about the readiness of the ship and its crew.

The Super Hornet’s crew ejected seconds before the missile struck, avoiding fatalities. A second missile launched by the Gettysburg narrowly missed another U.S. aircraft, adding to concerns about the ship’s systems and decision-making protocols.

The Gettysburg recently completed an extensive modernization program but faced widespread issues, according to a GAO report. Delays of over 15 years and cost overruns of 36% marked the $1.9 billion program, which included upgrades to combat systems and propulsion.

Navy pilots have voiced concerns about insufficient training aboard the Gettysburg. The ship plays a critical role as an air defense platform for carrier strike groups, making such incidents especially troubling.

Prior to deployment, propulsion and electrical failures were highlighted as significant concerns. Inspections in early 2024 revealed that key weapons systems remained inoperable despite the modernization effort.

The Navy is investigating whether the Gettysburg conducted adequate missile tests before deployment and whether training deficiencies contributed to the incident.

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