U.S. Navy’s Surge in Missile Usage: A Historical Overview of Air Defense Operations
The U.S. Navy has fired more air defense missiles in 15 months than in the last 30 years, with combat in the Red Sea surpassing World War II levels. This has resulted in over $1 billion in costs, highlighting serious concerns regarding munitions shortages for potential future conflicts, particularly with China. The Navy has adapted its strategies using alternative munitions amid escalating threats.
In a significant development, the U.S. Navy has executed more air defense missile launches in the past 15 months than it did during the last three decades. Retired Navy Commander Bryan Clark of the Hudson Institute noted that since the onset of combat operations in the Red Sea on October 19, 2023, the Navy has experienced its highest levels of maritime combat since World War II.
The financial implications of this escalation are considerable, with estimates exceeding $1 billion for interceptor costs used to neutralize drone and missile threats, as stated by Clark. With the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the conflict is currently paused; however, the Navy’s missile inventory requires extensive replenishment, which poses strategic risks should a conflict arise, particularly with China.
Commander Clark warned that in the event of a Taiwan invasion, the Navy could deplete its arsenal within days, highlighting the complex manufacturing processes involved in producing specialized munitions that are difficult to scale. The rapid intensification of conflict in the region, starting with the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, has seen adversaries like Houthi rebels using various missile systems against U.S. ships, notably during the USS Carney’s significant engagement on October 19.
The USS Carney engaged in intense combat, adding a record 51 engagements to its service during this period. Sailors experienced a transition from training to real combat, enhancing their capabilities through previous exercises. Following this initial surge of hostilities, the conflict in the Red Sea evolved into a concerted U.S. effort, dubbed Operation Prosperity Guardian, aimed at safeguarding international shipping.
U.S. forces, in collaboration with British allies, initiated strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, utilizing advanced aircraft and missile strike capabilities. The Navy demonstrated its responsiveness by intercepting Iranian missile threats aimed at Israel, while also managing to withstand drone assaults from the Houthis without suffering losses or significant damage to its vessels.
As missile costs increased, the Navy adapted its tactics, employing main guns to dispatch Houthi drones when they flew within closer proximity to the ships, using the less costly Hypervelocity Projectile as a solution to engage these low-flying threats. The use of alternative munitions became necessary, with the Navy reporting nearly 400 munitions expended, including high-cost missiles, although recent shifts towards more economical munitions like Sidewinders and Hellfires emerged.
The continuing conflict has raised serious concerns about the Navy’s munitions stockpile, with Secretary of the Navy John Phelan admitting to dangerously low levels during his confirmation hearing. Phelan emphasized the need for comprehensive solutions, including diversifying defense options to enhance the Navy’s operational resilience against ongoing threats.
In summary, the U.S. Navy’s unprecedented use of air defense missiles over the past 15 months significantly surpasses historical usage, primarily driven by the intensifying combat scenarios in the Red Sea. This situation has raised critical logistical concerns regarding munitions supply and readiness amid potential future conflicts, particularly with adversaries like China. The adaptation of tactics, alongside strategic efforts for replenishment, will be essential in maintaining operational effectiveness going forward.
Original Source: taskandpurpose.com
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