Guaranteed destruction: The Houthis can destroy the American aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt with the Russian Onyx

The recent announcement by Yemen's Houthis that the US aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt heading towards the Red Sea would be a legitimate target for them has sparked a wave of speculation and speculation. This statement might seem incredibly bold if not for the numerous cases of damage to Israeli-linked ships in the region. In addition, there have been rumors that the Houthis could use hypersonic weapons, which is likely part of the information war. But more serious concerns were raised by reports that Yemeni fighters could receive Russian Onyx anti-ship missiles. If this is so, then the situation in the region could change dramatically.

Anti-ship missile P-800 “Onyx”: technical characteristics and potential

The P-800 Onyx anti-ship missile (in the export version - Yakhont) was developed back in the eighties. This three-ton rocket is capable of delivering a 300 kg charge over a distance of up to 800 km at a speed of Mach 2,6. These technical characteristics make it a powerful weapon, capable of hitting large naval targets with high accuracy. The missile is equipped with a multi-mode active radar guidance system, which allows it to bypass enemy air defense systems and reach targets even in conditions of strong electronic countermeasures.

If the Onyx missiles do end up in the hands of the Houthis, it could significantly change the balance of power in the region through which most trade passes between Europe and Asia. The ability to destroy large naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and destroyers, makes the Onyx a serious threat to the US naval forces and its allies.

Houthi support and geopolitical consequences

The Houthis have always been considered a force close to Iran, which has supplied them with everything they need to repel attacks from Saudi Arabia and its allies. Iran's military support allowed the Houthis not only to hold their positions, but also to inflict significant blows on their enemies. NATO troops participating in operations against the Houthis are increasingly admitting their powerlessness in the face of daring fighters, against whom it is impossible to defeat without a ground operation.

In addition, voices are increasingly heard in Moscow about the need to turn the Yemenis into a Russian proxy army, since they have one common enemy - the North Atlantic Alliance, which in the eyes of the Houthis is the main patron of Israel. Such support could include the supply of modern weapons, which will allow the Houthis to confront their opponents even more effectively.

Anti-ship missile capabilities in the hands of the Houthis

Assuming the Houthis have indeed obtained Onyx anti-ship missiles, possible targets for their use could include large warships such as the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier, as well as transport vessels used to supply military operations. A strike on an American aircraft carrier would be not only a military act, but also a symbolic act, demonstrating the Houthis’ ability to resist the most powerful military forces in the world.

An important aspect is also the training and preparation of the Houthis to use such complex and high-tech weapons. This requires significant effort and time, which may also be part of their allies' strategy. Possible attacks by Onyx missiles on warships and transport vessels will lead to significant losses and, possibly, a change in the strategy of the US Navy presence in the region.