Bombs loaded on F/A-18
Bombs are loaded onto an F/A-18 Hornet at night. (Image from Navy video)

The Pentagon released multiple videos showing 24/7 operations against Houthis rebels by the San Diego-based USS Carl Vinson and Norfolk-based USS Harry S. Truman in the Middle East.

The undated videos posted Friday on X show crew members preparing and loading bombs, and F/A-18 Hornets taking off day and night.

At the beginning of the week, the Truman was in the Red Sea and the Vinson in the Arabian Sea, according to the nonprofit U.S. Naval Institute. The Vinson arrived in the region last week after it’s deployment was extended.

The two nuclear-powered aircraft carriers are conducting joint airstrikes, most recently on Thursday targeting the Houthi-controlled Ras Isa fuel terminal on the Red Sea.

“Today, U.S. forces took action to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue that has funded Houthi efforts to terrorize the entire region for over 10 years,” Central Command said.

The Pentagon has released little specific information about the raids, but Israeli media reported the attack caused “significant damage” to the facility.

“These operations are part of ongoing efforts to defend freedom of navigation, protect international shipping, and degrade Houthi capabilities used to threaten U.S. and coalition forces,” Central Command said.

For over a year, the Houthis have been firing missiles and drones at ships transiting the Red Sea, which is a significant cargo route between Europe and Asia.

Chris Jennewein is founder and senior editor of Times of San Diego.