Friendly Fire Incident Raises Questions About Gettysburg Readiness

The USS Gettysburg mistakenly shot down a U.S. F/A-18F Super Hornet during Red Sea operations on Dec. 22, raising concerns about the Navy’s modernization program. The missile strike occurred as the fighter was descending toward the carrier in its strike group.

The two-seat Super Hornet crew ejected before the missile struck. While both aviators were safely recovered, one sustained minor injuries. The Gettysburg launched a second missile shortly after, which missed another U.S. jet and detonated over the ocean.

The Gettysburg’s recent upgrades are under scrutiny following the incident. After eight years out of service, the ship completed modernization in 2023. However, a GAO report revealed significant issues with the program, including cost overruns and delays totaling more than 15 years.

Pilots have criticized training aboard the Gettysburg, describing it as inadequate for live combat scenarios. The ship is one of the Navy’s few air defense cruisers, tasked with protecting entire carrier groups, amplifying the consequences of such errors.

Propulsion and electrical problems also plagued the Gettysburg before deployment, according to the GAO. Reports from inspections in early 2024 indicated that some weapons systems were still not operational.

The investigation continues as Navy officials work to determine the root causes of the incident and whether the Gettysburg’s systems or training played a role.

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