The USS Stark Attack: A Tragedy in the Persian Gulf

On May 17, 1987, the United States Navy guided-missile frigate USS Stark was struck by two Iraqi Exocet missiles while in the Persian Gulf. The attack, which occurred during the Iran-Iraq War, resulted in the deaths of 37 American sailors and the serious injury of 21 others. It was a tragic event that highlighted the dangers of the region and the potential for miscalculation in wartime.

The Background of the Attack

The USS Stark was deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of Operation Earnest Will, a mission to protect Kuwaiti tankers from attacks by Iranian forces. The Iran-Iraq War was raging at the time, and both sides were targeting ships in the Gulf. The Iraqi military had acquired Exocet missiles from France, which were known for their speed and accuracy.

On the day of the attack, the Stark was transiting through the Gulf when it was hit by two Exocet missiles. The first missile struck the ship’s starboard side, near the aft section, while the second missile hit the port side, near the bow. Both missiles detonated on impact, causing significant damage to the ship.

The Aftermath of the Attack

The Stark’s crew immediately began damage control and firefighting efforts. However, the damage was extensive, and the ship was unable to continue its mission. The crew evacuated the ship, and the Stark was towed to Bahrain for repairs. The incident caused a major diplomatic crisis between the United States and Iraq. The United States demanded an apology and compensation from Iraq, and it also launched a series of retaliatory airstrikes against Iraqi military targets.

The Legacy of the USS Stark Attack

The USS Stark attack was a pivotal moment in the Iran-Iraq War. It demonstrated the vulnerability of American warships to sophisticated anti-ship missiles. It also highlighted the potential for miscalculation and escalation in wartime. In the aftermath of the attack, the United States Navy implemented a number of changes to its procedures and equipment to improve its defenses against missile attacks.

The attack also had a lasting impact on the families of the sailors who were killed and injured. The tragedy served as a stark reminder of the risks faced by American military personnel in the Persian Gulf region.

Key Takeaways

• The USS Stark attack was a tragic event that resulted in the deaths of 37 American sailors.
• The attack highlighted the dangers of the Persian Gulf region and the potential for miscalculation in wartime.
• The incident led to a major diplomatic crisis between the United States and Iraq.
• The USS Stark attack had a lasting impact on the families of the sailors who were killed and injured.

Further Reading

• “The USS Stark Incident: A Case Study in the Dangers of Miscalculation” by Dr. William B. Scott
• “The Iran-Iraq War: A Historical Overview” by Dr. Kenneth M. Pollack