In a stunning display of aeronautical talent, an F-18 fighter jet took an unscheduled dip in the Red Sea after a landing flub aboard the USS Harry S. Truman, following a similar mishap just a week prior.

The recent misadventure marks the second jet mishap within a week for the USS Harry S. Truman, as this $60 million F/A-18F Super Hornet failed to engage its 'arrestment' mechanism, sending it swimming instead of soaring. Fortunately, both crew members ejected safely and only sustained minor injuries, but the Navy's ongoing investigation suggests that perhaps carrier operations could use a little more practice—or at least a better grip on the landing gear.

The incident occurred when the fighter jet, in a surprising twist reminiscent of a less-than-graceful ballet performance, failed to come to a proper halt after landing on the flight deck. One might assume that aerodynamics and physics would play an important role here, but it turns out the 'arrestment' mechanism, which is designed to slow down and halt the aircraft as it lands, had its own ideas. Like a rebellious teenager, it simply refused to cooperate, and the jet took an unintended plunge right off the carrier's edge.

Even though the crew managed to eject in time—as if performing their own version of a synchronized swimming routine—they were soon met with the chilly embrace of the Red Sea. Thankfully, they were quickly rescued by a helicopter. Medical evaluations revealed they had only minor injuries, likely reminding them that water landing is best left to seaplanes and dolphins. Still, one has to question what kind of beach vacation the fighter jet was hoping for.

The timing of this incident brings to mind the curious nature of the Navy's operations as it comes just days after another fighter jet decided to play a game of 'who can end up in the water first'. On April 28, a different jet, while being towed into the hangar, also found itself taking an unexpectedly aquatic route. One can only imagine the conversations around the carrier; "Hey, do you want to be the first one to ditch into the drink this week?" Answers were assuredly a resounding 'No!'—unless one has a serious leaning toward the nontraditional dive team.

Given that both jets belong to the size and caliber of the F/A-18F Super Hornet, which can cost upwards of $60 million, the Navy might want to invest in better flotation devices or at least some life jackets for these expensive pieces of machinery. The ongoing scrutiny of the Truman's operations is noteworthy; after all, losing two jets in such a short time frame naturally raises questions about the practices on board. Perhaps the arrestment mechanism has a mind of its own—or perhaps the Navy's training roster needs some updating.

The USS Harry S. Truman has not only been a stage for aerial performances but is also currently engaged in operations supporting U.S. strikes against Houthi fighters in Yemen, adding yet another layer of complexity to its operational duties. With multiple incidents swirling around its deployment to the region, one can't help but wonder if the carrier is unwittingly turning into a staging ground for a bizarre new genre of aquatics.

The inquiry into the failed landings is currently underway, as the Navy officials attempt to unravel the mysteries behind what went wrong. Investigations often bring to light many things—some expected, some not, much like a family reunion. However, one can appreciate that the Navy may not be thrilled about this unexpected water sports adventure and might prefer their jets airborne and intact.

In wrapping up, while the spectacular visuals of a fighter jet engaged in a graceful dive may sound like an exciting new trend in the aviation world, the Navy would likely prefer their aircraft to remain airborne and the crew on deck, practicing their pirouettes rather than dodging ocean waves. Here's hoping that in the future, the only dips we hear about will be the one served with chips during Navy gatherings, and not the ones involving pricey fighter jets taking unplanned swims.