Adm. Daryl Caudle, the Fleet Forces commander, addressed the ongoing challenges of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, emphasizing the need to protect key shipping lanes. The Houthis have attacked around 80 merchant ships since October 2023, prompting the US Navy to increase its presence in the region.
Caudle stated that interdicting the flow of missiles, drones, and other weapons from Iran to the Houthis is crucial for keeping these areas safe for merchant shipping. He also noted that the French and United Kingdom navies will be operating alongside the US forces in these waters.
The Navy is taking a proactive approach to prevent attacks, with a focus on “acting at our time and tempo” rather than just reacting to threats. Caudle mentioned that USS Stockdale (DDG-106) and USS O’Kane (DDG-77) recently shot down Houthi weapons in the Gulf of Aden.
Caudle also discussed the need for more efficient maintenance and modernization processes, citing a shortage of ships in shipyards. The Navy is exploring less costly options like Coyote or Hellfire missiles to destroy incoming Houthi weapons, rather than relying on high-end combat systems.
Furthermore, Caudle emphasized the importance of having a robust maintenance dashboard system, which would provide commanders with real-time information on what needs to be fixed and enable them to take swift action. He also highlighted the Navy’s focus on unmanned, autonomous systems that will enhance its future capabilities without replacing manned personnel.
Overall, Adm. Daryl Caudle’s comments underscore the ongoing challenges faced by the US Navy in protecting vital shipping lanes and emphasize the need for proactive measures to address these threats.
Source: https://news.usni.org/2024/12/16/stopping-flow-of-weapons-to-houthis-key-to-halting-merchant-attacks-says-fleet-forces-commander