In a dramatic escalation of maritime tensions, U.S. Navy MH-60 Seahawk helicopters have sunk Iranian-backed Houthi boats in the Red Sea, marking a significant confrontation in the region. The U.S. Central Command reported that the incident unfolded after the container ship Mars Kangjao issued a distress call, revealing that it was under aggressive attack from four small boats originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.

As the small boats closed in, armed with crew-served weapons and attempting to board the vessel, the situation rapidly escalated to a life-threatening crisis. A security team aboard the Mars Kangjao engaged the assailants in defense. Responding swiftly to the distress signal, U.S. Navy helicopters from the USS Eisenhower and USS Gravely arrived on the scene. Despite issuing verbal warnings, the Houthi boats brazenly fired upon the helicopters, prompting a decisive response.

In a fierce act of self-defense, the U.S. Navy helicopters retaliated, successfully neutralizing three of the four attacking boats, resulting in the loss of their crews. The fourth vessel fled the area, leaving U.S. personnel unharmed. This engagement not only underscores the evolving capabilities of the MH-60 Seahawk as a formidable anti-surface warfare platform but also highlights the escalating threats posed by Houthi forces in the region.

Prior to this confrontation, U.S. forces had already intercepted two anti-ship ballistic missiles aimed at the Mars Kangjao, demonstrating the high-stakes environment in the southern Red Sea. As tensions continue to rise, the U.S. Navy’s decisive action serves as a stark warning against further aggression in these contested waters.