The Yemeni group Ansar Allah (Houthis) continues to demonstrate its military capabilities, posing serious challenges to the US armed forces. During a recent incident over Yemen, the Houthis’ air defenses almost shot down several F-16C fighters and a fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II aircraft belonging to the US Air Force. This was reported by sources in the Pentagon, noting that the attack was successfully repelled thanks to the maneuvers of the pilots and electronic warfare systems. The incident became further evidence that the Houthis, despite the long-standing conflict, retain the ability to threaten even the most modern military technology of the West. According to Arab media, in particular Al Mayadeen, advanced surface-to-air missiles, allegedly supplied by Iran, were used in the attack, which indicates the group’s continued external support.

Against this backdrop, the US administration announced the end of a series of airstrikes on Houthi fortified positions and ammunition depots, which were carried out with the aim of weakening the military potential of Ansar Allah and ensuring the safety of shipping in the Red Sea. However, as it became known from the Pentagon's statements, instead of withdrawing all forces from the region, Washington is changing tactics. B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers are being transferred to the Diego Garcia air base in the Indian Ocean, which will replace the stealthy B-2A Spirit. According to Reuters, this decision is due to the need to maintain a military presence in the region while reducing the risks to expensive "stealth" aircraft. B-52H, capable of carrying long-range cruise missiles, will allow the US to strike from a safe distance, minimizing the threat from Houthi air defense systems.