Navy Ships and MiG Shootdowns During the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War was marked by a myriad of technological and tactical innovations, particularly in the realm of naval warfare. During this conflict, U.S. Navy ships engaged in several direct confrontations with North Vietnamese MiG aircraft, leading to notable shootdowns. These engagements showcased the advancement in surface-to-air missile systems and the bravery of naval personnel.

USS Biddle (DLG-34) - A Pivotal Engagement

During the Vietnam War, the USS Biddle (DLG-34) was involved in a significant engagement. On July 19, 1972, this ship was part of Operation Ivory Coast, a campaign aimed at disrupting North Vietnamese naval and air operations. The Biddle achieved an impressive tally of three MiG shootdowns that day.

Two of the MiGs were downed using Terrier missiles, while the third was engaged in close quarters with 5-inch (127 mm) gunfire. Interestingly, this last MiG is noted as the last confirmed shootdown by a manually loaded gun on a modern naval vessel. The Biddle is documented to have splashed two confirmed and one probable MiG, making an impressive 3 out of 5.

USS Sterett (DLG-31) - Legendary Surface-to-Air Missiles

The USS Sterett (DLG-31) stands out as a testament to the effectiveness of surface-to-air missiles in naval warfare. During her second tour in 1972, Sterett provided critical PIRAZ (Perimeter Air Radar and Identification Zone) support and was the first U.S. Navy ship to engage and down a North Vietnamese MiG-21 with the help of Air Force Combat Air Patrol (CAP) safety teams.

During her deployment, Sterett encountered and engaged two more MiG-17s, successfully using Terrier missiles to bring them down. On April 19, 1972, during the Dong Hoi engagement, Sterett fired another salvo of Terrier missiles and was credited with downing an unidentified target, possibly a Styx surface-to-surface missile, where it exploded midair. By embarking on two successful pilot rescues, Sterett eventually returned to Subic Bay on May 22, marking a strategic success for the U.S. Navy.

USS Long Beach (CGN-9) -A First in Naval Warfare

The USS Long Beach (CGN-9) played a significant role in the Vietnam War, particularly in the integration of surface-to-air missiles into naval operations. In May/June 1968, while on patrol in the Gulf of Tonkin, Long Beach conducted two of the first confirmed surface-to-air missile (SAM) engagements against North Vietnamese MiG-21 aircraft. Utilizing RIM-8 Talos missiles, the ship intercepted and destroyed two MiGs from ranges of 65 and 61 miles away, marking the first time a ship-based surface-to-air missile successfully brought down an aircraft.

Modern Naval Warfare and Legacy

The shootdowns by the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War highlight the evolution of naval warfare. The use of advanced missile systems like the Talos and Terrier was a pivotal moment, as it indicated the effectiveness of such systems in downing modern jet fighters. Moreover, the ability to engage and down modern aircraft with manually loaded guns such as the 5-inch (127 mm) cannon on the USS Biddle underscored the importance of versatility and adaptability in naval combat.

These engagements by the U.S. Navy ships not only reflected technological advancements but also demonstrated the bravery and skill of the naval personnel who operated these systems during some of the most challenging combat conditions. The legacy of these engagements remains a cornerstone in the history of naval combat and missile technology development.

Conclusion

The U.S. Navy's engagement with North Vietnamese MiGs during the Vietnam War marked a significant period in naval history. The use of advanced surface-to-air missiles and manual gun engagements by ships like the USS Biddle, Sterett, and Long Beach highlighted the tactical innovations and the strategic importance of these engagements. These engagements continue to serve as key examples of how technological advancements in naval warfare can impact the outcome of military conflicts.

Keywords: Navy ships, Vietnam War, MiG shootdowns