The USS Stark (FFG-31) was a Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate of the United States Navy that suffered a devastating attack on May 17, 1987. The incident occurred during the Iran-Iraq War when an Iraqi Mirage F1 fighter jet fired two Exocet missiles at the ship in the Persian Gulf. This unexpected attack resulted in 37 American sailors losing their lives and left 21 others injured. The event remains one of the most tragic and controversial naval incidents in modern history.
Background of the USS Stark (FFG-31)
Design and Purpose
The USS Stark was commissioned in 1982 as part of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, designed for anti-submarine warfare, convoy escort, and surface warfare support.
Key Specifications:
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Displacement: 4,100 tons (full load)
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Length: 453 feet (138 meters)
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Speed: 29 knots
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Armament:
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One Mk 13 missile launcher for SM-1 Standard missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles
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One 76mm Mk 75 naval gun
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Two Mk 32 triple torpedo tubes
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One Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) for last-ditch missile defense
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The ship played a crucial role in protecting oil shipments and maintaining security in the Persian Gulf, an area of high geopolitical tension in the 1980s.
The Attack on USS Stark
Events Leading Up to the Strike
On the evening of May 17, 1987, the USS Stark was on patrol in the central Persian Gulf, monitoring regional activity as part of Operation Earnest Will, a mission to protect commercial shipping during the Iran-Iraq War.
At approximately 9:00 PM, an Iraqi Air Force Mirage F1 fighter jet approached the ship. The aircraft was detected by radar, but there was no indication of hostility. At the time, Iraq was considered a de facto ally of the U.S. due to tensions with Iran.
Missile Launch and Impact
Without warning, the Iraqi Mirage fired two Exocet missiles at the USS Stark from about 22 miles (37 km) away. The first missile struck the ship’s port side, penetrating deep into the hull before exploding in the crew quarters. Just moments later, the second missile hit, causing a massive fire and severe structural damage.
Why Was the Attack Not Prevented?
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The ship’s defense systems were not activated in time. The Phalanx CIWS was not engaged, and the Mk 13 missile launcher was unable to intercept the incoming threat.
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The crew was caught off guard. The Iraqi jet did not show signs of aggression until the missiles were launched.
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There was confusion about Iraqi intentions. The U.S. and Iraq were not officially at war, and the USS Stark did not expect an attack from an Iraqi aircraft.
Casualties and Damage
The attack killed 37 sailors and injured 21 others, marking one of the deadliest incidents involving a U.S. Navy ship since the Vietnam War. The explosions and fires caused extensive damage to the ship, but the crew’s heroic firefighting efforts prevented the vessel from sinking.
Despite the devastation, the USS Stark remained afloat and was able to return to port for repairs.
Extent of Damage:
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Large hole in the hull from the first missile impact
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Severe fire damage throughout the crew quarters and command areas
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Electrical and weapons system failures
Aftermath and Investigation
Response from Iraq
The Iraqi government claimed that the attack was accidental and blamed it on pilot error. Saddam Hussein expressed regret over the incident and offered compensation to the families of the victims. However, some experts believe the attack may have been a deliberate warning or a case of mistaken identity.
U.S. Navy Investigation
A formal investigation by the U.S. Navy and Department of Defense determined that:
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The USS Stark’s defense systems were not activated in time to prevent the attack.
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The crew was unprepared for a sudden missile strike from a supposed friendly nation.
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The Iraqi pilot may have mistaken the USS Stark for an Iranian vessel.
No direct military retaliation was taken against Iraq, as the U.S. sought to maintain diplomatic relations during the ongoing conflict with Iran.
USS Stark’s Repairs and Retirement
Repairs and Return to Service
After emergency stabilization, the USS Stark was transported to Mayport, Florida, where it underwent major repairs. The hull was reconstructed, and new defensive systems were installed to prevent similar attacks in the future. The ship returned to active duty in 1988 and continued serving until its decommissioning in 1999.
Final Fate
In 2006, the USS Stark was scrapped, but the memory of the attack remains a crucial lesson in naval warfare and military preparedness.
Lessons Learned from the USS Stark Incident
The attack on the USS Stark led to significant changes in U.S. Navy protocols and defense strategies.
Key Takeaways:
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Improved Missile Defense:
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Ships were equipped with more advanced missile detection and interception systems.
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The Aegis Combat System was enhanced to provide better early warning and response.
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Better Communication and Threat Identification:
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Improved coordination between naval vessels and military intelligence.
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New rules of engagement were implemented to prevent misidentification of threats.
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Increased Training for Sailors:
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Crews received more rigorous training in missile defense and emergency response.
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Firefighting and damage control drills became a higher priority in naval operations.
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The USS Stark Exocet missile attack remains one of the most tragic naval incidents in U.S. history. It exposed critical weaknesses in ship defense systems and preparedness, ultimately leading to significant improvements in naval security protocols.
Despite the loss of 37 sailors, the resilience and bravery of the USS Stark’s crew ensured that the ship survived and returned to service. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of modern warfare and the importance of vigilance in naval operations.
