Military exercises conducted in the Persian Gulf brought together the U.S. Navy and Air Force to conduct live-fire operations, emphasizing the integrated capabilities of various military forces.
littoral combat ship USS Santa Barbara (Independence class) of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt A surface bombardment was provided with support, and the operation was led by US Central Command.
The exercise, titled “Exercise Killer Tomato,” focused on improving the accuracy of naval artillery fire and strengthening cooperation between air and sea platforms in a realistic operational environment. Video released by the Navy shows the A-10 providing close air support to ships during training, demonstrating its ability to conduct joint operations in combat missions.
USS Santa Barbara is currently part of the U.S. 5th Fleet, responsible for maritime safety operations in the Persian Gulf and strategic regions of the Middle East. During the mission, the ship also participated in technology demonstrations, including an experimental sea launch of a low-cost unmanned attack drone, a significant milestone achieved in the region in December 2025.
The ship is designed for operations off the coasts of conflict zones and combines high speed, long-distance navigation capability, and modular construction. Equipped with Sea Giraffe 3D radar, electro-optical system, 57 mm cannon and SeaRAM missile system, USS Santa Barbara demonstrates the Independence class’s versatility in complex situations including extended patrol, rapid response and short-range defense.
source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @US5thFleet | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our 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
