In the context of growing tensions in the Red SeaTHE UNITED STATES took an important step in forming a multinational coalition in response to growing rebel attacks Houthis From Yemen. This coalition, including nations such as Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Seychelles and the United Kingdomit was created to protect shipping lanes and uphold the principle of freedom of navigation, which is essential for global trade.
However, despite the formation of this coalition, the Houthis have not changed their minds. In reverse. They just introduced a new element to the maritime security equation: naval surface drones known as USVs. This development represents a significant escalation in the tactics employed by the Houthis.
The most notable accident involving a USV was reported by Vice-Admiral Coopercommander of the US Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, where a USV launched from Houthi-controlled territory exploded in an international shipping lane.
Faced with this new threat, the American and British armies have stepped up defensive measures, shooting down a total of 15 drones in the area. This development raises questions about the long-term viability of the West’s costly strategies against adversaries using cheap weapons, such as the Houthis.
The USV threat poses a tactical dilemma for coalition ships. These ships must now simultaneously manage air and surface threats, requiring persistent air cover and significantly increasing operational costs. This complex situation is exacerbated by the fact that many commercial ships continue to transit the region, despite the increased risks.
In parallel with these developments, the pressure on major shipping companies is intensifying. Companies such as Maersk and Evergreen have already begun circumnavigating the Cape of Good Hope, avoiding the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. This diversion leads to a significant increase in transportation costs, affecting global trade.
The use of naval drones in the Black Sea has recently highlighted their disruptive potential in maritime conflicts. In particular, Russia had to cope with attacks by these drones by Ukraine. These incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of traditional fleets to asymmetric tactics employing low-cost but effective technologies.
This tactical evolution represents a strategic challenge for traditional maritime powers such as Russia, which must now deal with this new form of threat at sea. This reality highlights the importance of a balance between military action and diplomacy to maintain stability in a strategically vital region for the world. trade.
2024-01-08 21:55:17
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