Combat aircraft play crucial roles amid Red Sea crisis

Since the Red Sea Crisis began in October 2023, tensions have escalated as rebels in northern Yemen target merchant ships and launch ballistic missiles at Israel. This has prompted military responses from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Israel. Here are five types of combat aircraft that have been deployed in the region.

The B-2 Spirit, operated by the United States, has been utilized for dropping MOP bunker-busters. "The largest and most eye-catching combat aircraft used in the conflict so far is the B-2 Spirit," according to reports. These were deployed in October 2024 to hit underground targets, marking its first use in combat after seven years.

The MQ-9 Reaper drones, also operated by the United States, are used for ISR missions and potentially firing Hellfire missiles. The US has regularly deployed these over Yemen despite their vulnerability to air defense systems supplied to Houthis by Iran. It appears that "the Houthis have been successful at shooting down dozens of MQ-9 Reapers over recent years."