A Somber Opening Message
During the annual Surface Navy Association symposium today, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jim Kilby emphasized the importance of learning from a serious incident that occurred on December 22, when USS Gettysburg mistakenly fired on US Navy F/A-18s. “Thankfully, no one was hurt,” Kilby noted. He stressed the need for the Navy to incorporate real-time lessons from this event into future operations, marking a significantly serious tone for the opening of the conference, typically characterized by a more optimistic atmosphere.
The incident in question involved a Navy cruiser that accidentally shot down an F/A-18 Hornet while the service has been engaged in efforts to counter Houthi attacks over the past 15 months. At the time, US Central Command confirmed that the crew successfully ejected from the aircraft.
Ongoing Investigations
In response to the incident, the Navy has initiated three separate investigations. The first is a “JAGMAN” inquiry to investigate the incident itself, while the second review focuses on assessing the deployed forces within the associated carrier strike group. Both of these reviews are led by flag officers. The third review, conducted by the Naval Safety Center, aims to compile safety lessons learned from the situation.
Kilby emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the investigative process, stating, “I am adamant that we will preserve this investigative process and get a deeper understanding of what’s happening.” He refrained from discussing specific actions taken by the strike group commander post-incident, citing the ongoing collection of facts and the potential risks of prematurely addressing the situation.
Pride in Sailors Amid Operational Achievements
The remarks come as Navy leadership reflects on months of successful operations, including the takedown of numerous drone and missile threats by carrier strike groups. Kilby expressed pride in the sailors’ accomplishments but reiterated that today’s focus should not revolve around these achievements.
Following Kilby’s address, Vice Adm. Brendan McLane, the surface warfare commander, and Vice Adm. Daniel Cheever, the air warfare commander, provided a broader overview of lessons learned. Their discussions, alongside Rear Adm. Joseph Cahill and Rear Adm. Douglas Verissimo, highlighted the importance of effective data sharing between the fleet and shore facilities, as well as the necessity for improved training collaboration between aviation and surface communities.
