Combat aircraft play key role in Red Sea conflict as tensions rise

Since the Red Sea Crisis began in October 2023, various combat aircraft have been deployed in the region. Rebels in northern Yemen have targeted merchant ships and launched missiles at Israel, prompting military responses from the U.S., U.K., and Israel. Key aircraft used include the B-2 Spirit, which conducted its first combat mission in seven years, and the MQ-9 Reaper, which has faced significant losses due to air defense systems. The U.K. has utilized Typhoon fighters for strikes, while the U.S. Navy's F/A-18 Super Hornets have been active in intercepting Houthi drones. Israel has employed F-35s for long-range strikes against Houthi targets. The conflict has seen a mix of advanced and older aircraft, reflecting the evolving military strategies in the region.