On November 26, the USS Mason (DDG 87), alongside coalition counter-piracy task force (TF 151) and supporting aircraft, responded to a distress call from the M/V Central Park, which reported an attack by an unknown entity. The coalition’s decisive action led to the surrender of five armed individuals who had attempted to flee. This event was followed by a missile attack from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting the vicinity of the USS Mason and M/V Central Park, which fortunately resulted in no damage or injuries.
USS Mason (DDG 87) – Arleigh Burke-class Guided-Missile Destroyer
• Length: 505 feet (154 m)
• Beam: 66 feet (20 m)
• Displacement: Approximately 9,200 tons
• Propulsion: 4 General Electric LM2500-30 gas turbines, two shafts, 100,000 total shaft horsepower
• Speed: In excess of 30 knots
• Armament:
• AEGIS Combat System
• 1x 5 inch (127mm)/62 caliber Mk 45 Mod 4 naval gun
• 2x 25mm Mk 38 machine guns
• 4x .50 cal (12.7mm) machine guns
• 2x Mk 41 Vertical Launching Systems
• RIM-66M Standard medium range missiles
• RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missiles
• BGM-109 Tomahawk land attack missiles
• RUM-139 Vertical Launch ASROC anti-submarine rockets
• Aircraft: Capable of operating two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters
• Crew: 276 officers and enlisted personnel
Task Force 151 – Counter-Piracy Operations
Task Force 151 primarily comprises naval and air units from various nations, dedicated to deterring and disrupting piracy and armed robbery at sea. The specifics of the ships involved in this incident under TF 151 are not detailed, but these vessels typically possess capabilities complementary to the USS Mason, focusing on maritime security, surveillance, and interdiction operations.
Ballistic Missile Incident
The missiles launched on November 27 were likely short-range ballistic missiles, a common arsenal of the Houthi rebels. While specifics are not provided, these missiles typically have a range of a few hundred kilometers and are capable of carrying conventional high-explosive warheads.
General Assessment
General Michael Erik Kurilla’s statement emphasizes the importance of maritime domain security for regional stability. The USS Mason’s involvement and the subsequent missile attack underscore the volatile security environment in the region and the challenges faced in ensuring the safety of international shipping lanes.
The incident demonstrates the necessity for robust naval capabilities and international cooperation in countering threats to maritime security. The Arleigh Burke-class destroyers like the USS Mason, with their advanced combat systems and versatile armament, are crucial in such operations, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities against a wide range of threats.
Conclusion
The response to the distress call by the USS Mason and its allied forces, followed by the adept handling of the missile threat, highlights the effectiveness of current maritime security strategies and the importance of continued vigilance in these critical international waterways.
]]>