In a historic milestone, a US Navy aviator flying an F/A-18 Super Hornet became the first American woman to achieve an air-to-air combat victory, downing a Houthi attack drone during a recent deployment.

The breakthrough victory came amid a rigorous nine-month deployment where Strike Fighter Squadron 32, known as the 'Flying Swordsmen,' logged over 3,000 combat hours and completed nearly 1,500 missions. This historic achievement marks a significant moment for women in military aviation and highlights the ongoing strategic operations against Houthi forces, who have increasingly targeted commercial ships in the Red Sea.

The pilot's squadron, Strike Fighter Squadron 32, played a crucial role during their recent deployment. The squadron, an integral part of Carrier Strike Group 2, was deployed for nine months, returning on July 14. The squadron's rigorous operations against Houthi forces in Yemen showcased their expertise and resilience.

During the deployment, Strike Fighter Squadron 32 completed over 3,000 combat flight hours and nearly 1,500 combat missions. These missions were targeted primarily against Houthi forces identified as threats to commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea. The strategic deployment aimed to mitigate the risks posed by the Houthi militia, who have been actively involved in consistent attacks on commercial vessels surrounding the Red Sea.

The aerial victory achieved by the US Navy aviator involved downing a one-way Houthi attack drone, contributing to the wider efforts of aerial defense against Houthi aggression. The successful engagement reflects the advanced training and preparedness of the pilot and the entire squadron. This notable mission was part of broader operations that included firing over 20 air-to-air missiles against Houthi drones during the deployment.

In addition to their success in aerial warfare, Strike Fighter Squadron 32 executed two significant strikes in Yemen. These operations targeted areas under Houthi control, aiming to disrupt the militia's ability to conduct further attacks. The squadron's efforts were supported by the entire Carrier Strike Group 2, which was involved in comprehensive military actions in the region.

The larger mission of Carrier Strike Group 2 included hitting over 460 Houthi targets in Yemen. These strikes consisted of a combination of air-to-air, air-to-surface, and naval missile attacks. Specifically, the group's warships fired 155 standard missiles and 135 Tomahawk land-attack missiles. Additionally, aircraft within the group released 60 air-to-air missiles and 420 air-to-surface weapons, illustrating the extensive scale of the operations targeted at diminishing Houthi capabilities.

Carrier Strike Group 2's deployment is part of a long-standing tradition, with notable benchmarks such as integrating women aviators into their operating crew on the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1994.

The Houthi militia's attacks on commercial ships have been a significant concern for international shipping and security. These actions aim to disrupt maritime trade routes and exert pressure on international stakeholders. The deployment of Carrier Strike Group 2 and their comprehensive efforts aim to counter these threats and ensure the safety of commercial activities in the region.

As the first American woman to achieve an aerial victory in air-to-air combat, the Navy aviator's accomplishment not only sets a precedent but also reflects the evolving role of women in the military. This achievement underscores the effectiveness and inclusiveness of the U.S. Navy's training and operational strategy, ensuring that all service members, regardless of gender, are prepared to engage and succeed in critical combat missions.