By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
In a momentous event that has drawn both national and international attention, the USS Carney, carrying over 300 sailors, has returned to Naval Station Mayport. This marks the end of a historic seven-month deployment that has seen the Navy face challenges it hasn’t encountered in over eight decades.
The USS Carney, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, has a rich history of service. Commissioned in 1996, it is named after Admiral Robert Carney, a distinguished figure in the United States Navy. The ship has been equipped with advanced technological systems, including the Aegis Combat System and the SPY-1 air search radar. These systems enable the ship to detect, identify, track, and engage aerial targets, enhancing its operational effectiveness.
During its eight-month deployment, the USS Carney operated in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations. It played a crucial role in ensuring regional stability and the free flow of maritime commerce. The ship conducted 51 engagements, successfully engaging Houthi-launched weapons, including land attack cruise missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and unmanned systems. It also conducted two defensive strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, destroying 20 targets, and successfully destroying one Iranian-launched medium-range ballistic missile.
The USS Carney’s deployment was one in history books. The ship found itself in the midst of conflict between Hamas and Israel just three weeks into its tour. In response to attacks from the Iranian-backed Houthi in the Red Sea, the ship launched missiles, marking a significant escalation in its engagement. The Carney had more than 51 engagements, deploying a range of weapons including land attack cruise missiles and anti-ship ballistic missiles. This level of combat engagement is a rarity, not seen since the days of World War II.
The Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, was present to welcome the sailors back. He expressed his pride and gratitude for their bravery and sacrifice. The USS Carney was also awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its outstanding performance.
The Pentagon’s assessment of the USS Carney’s performance during its deployment highlights the ship’s effectiveness in combat. The ship’s successful interception and destruction of Houthi-launched weapons demonstrate the value of its advanced technological systems. The Aegis Combat System and the SPY-1 air search radar have proven to be critical assets in the ship’s operations.
The USS Carney’s return from deployment underscores the importance of advanced technology and skilled personnel in modern warfare. The ship’s successful operations in the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations highlight the critical role of the Navy-Marine Corps Team in maintaining maritime safety, security, and global stability. As emerging threats and technological advancements continue to shape the landscape of warfare, the experiences and lessons learned from the USS Carney’s deployment will undoubtedly influence future naval operations.
