U.S. Military Downs Iranian Shahed-139 Drone Near USS Abraham Lincoln
The U.S. military recently engaged in a significant incident involving an Iranian drone in the Arabian Sea. U.S. Central Command confirmed that U.S. forces shot down a Shahed-139 drone as it approached the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier.
Details of the Incident
The drone was detected flying aggressively toward the USS Abraham Lincoln approximately 500 miles from Iran’s southern coast. According to U.S. Central Command spokesman, Capt. Tim Hawkins, the drone maneuvered toward the ship despite warnings and de-escalatory measures from U.S. forces operating in international waters.
- Drone Type: Shahed-139
- Location: Arabian Sea
- Distance from Iran: 500 miles
- Response Aircraft: F-35 fighter jet
Subsequent Iranian Harassment
The situation escalated further when, hours later, Iranian military vessels harassed a U.S.-flagged oil tanker named the Stena Imperative in the Strait of Hormuz. Two Iranian boats and a drone approached the tanker at high speeds, threatening to board.
In response to this harassment, the USS McCaul, a guided-missile destroyer, was dispatched to escort the tanker. U.S. Air Force provided air support during this engagement. Capt. Hawkins emphasized the United States’ commitment to maintaining safety in the region.
Escalating Tensions in the Region
These incidents are part of a broader pattern of Iranian aggression, which the U.S. military claims increases risks of miscalculation and destabilization in the region. President Trump noted a recent increase in U.S. military presence near Iran, referring to it as a “massive armada.”
While U.S. authorities are prepared for a range of military options, advisors are urging the administration to pursue diplomatic channels instead of military strikes. Conversations have reportedly occurred between President Trump and Iranian officials, focusing on nuclear capabilities and domestic protests in Iran.
- U.S. Presence: Increased military deployment near Iran
- Diplomatic Efforts: Ongoing discussions with Iranian officials
- Key Issues: Nuclear weapons and treatment of protesters
The U.S. military continues to monitor the situation closely, reinforcing its stance against Iranian provocations in international waters.
