US frigate sunk in live missile drill off Scotland during Atlantic Thunder exercise
A US decommissioned frigate was deliberately destroyed in the Atlantic Thunder live-fire drill west of Scotland after a missile launch by the destroyer USS Paul Ignatius.
In a joint US-UK live-fire drill called Atlantic Thunder, held west of the Hebrides, the decommissioned frigate USS Klakring was deliberately struck and sunk after the destroyer USS Paul Ignatius launched a missile. The operation, captured on video released by US Naval Forces Europe and Africa, also featured other vessels and aircraft conducting long-range missile strikes. The UK Defence Journal reported the missile hit the frigate, while the Royal Navy said the exercise builds experience for NATO-level operations.
Commanding officer captain Claire Thompson highlighted the importance of integrating battle staff and rehearsing safe aviation procedures. The drill also serves to ready HMS Queen Elizabeth to assume flagship duties from HMS Prince of Wales by late 2027. Overall, the exercise underscores ongoing NATO readiness and the testing of high-precision strike capabilities.
Why it matters
The drill shows NATO partners honing live-fire, long-range missile skills and preparing the UK carrier for future high-readiness roles.
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