US launches 5 airstrikes against Houthi anti-ship missiles, destroys underwater drone

The U.S. launched five "self-defense" airstrikes against a series of Houthi rebel positions in Yemen on Saturday.

The strikes targeted three anti-ship missile batteries, one unmanned underwater vessel (UUV) and another unmanned surface vessel (USV), U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced Sunday.

"This is the first observed Houthi employment of a UUV since attacks began in Oct. 23," CENTCOM said in a statement.

"CENTCOM identified the anti-ship cruise missiles, unmanned underwater vessel, and the unmanned surface vessel in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels," the statement continued.