A military exercise in the Persian Gulf brought together United States naval and air assets in a live-fire operation that highlighted integration between different forces.
The littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbaraof the Independence class, carried out surface artillery fire with the support of aircraft A-10 Thunderbolt of the American Air Force, in an activity conducted by the US Central Command.
Named “Exercise Killer Tomato”, the training focused on improving the precision of naval artillery and reinforcing coordination between air and sea platforms in a realistic operational scenario. Images released by the Navy show an A-10 performing close air support to the ship during the activity, highlighting the ability to act jointly in combat missions.
The USS Santa Barbara is currently subordinate to the US 5th Fleet, responsible for maritime security operations in the Gulf and strategic areas of the Middle East. During its mission, the ship also participated in technological demonstrations, including the experimental launch at sea of a low-cost unmanned attack drone — a milestone achieved in the region in December 2025.
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Designed to operate in contested coastal environments, the ship combines high speed, long range and modular architecture. Equipped with Sea Giraffe 3D radar, electro-optical systems and armaments such as the 57mm cannon and SeaRAM missile system, the Santa Barbara exemplifies the Independence class’ versatility in extended patrols, rapid response and short-range defense in complex scenarios.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @US5thFleet | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
Last week, @USNavy Sailors from USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) participated in the @USAFCENT-led exercise Killer Tomato, a live-fire maritime gunnery exercise conducted in the @CENTCOM area or responsibility and supported by @usairforce A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. The exercise… pic.twitter.com/esO5BtCMKT
— U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet (@US5thFleet) February 8, 2026
