Recent incidents involving the USS Nimitz and other US military aircraft in the South China Sea and the Red Sea underscore ongoing risks during military operations in contested waters, with multiple aircraft crashes and losses of expensive jets.

The USS Nimitz, currently on its final deployment before retirement, has experienced several mishaps this year, including the mistaken shoot-down of an F/A-18 jet, a fighter jet falling into the Red Sea, and another jet going overboard, with all pilots safely ejecting.

These crashes, which involved aircraft costing over $60 million each, have occurred amidst US military operations in regions with disputed territorial claims, notably the South China Sea, where China asserts most of the territory.

The South China Sea remains a highly contentious area, with multiple countries including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei claiming parts of it, leading to ongoing regional tensions over islands, reefs, and vital resources.

The incidents occurred in a region where China claims most of the territory, and US Navy operations aim to ensure free navigation despite China's militarization and territorial assertions.

The US Pacific Fleet has not disclosed exact crash locations but continues operations in international waters of the South China Sea, a strategic area with ongoing disputes and Chinese military activity.

US Navy operations in the South China Sea, including the Nimitz's freedom-of-navigation missions, are part of a broader strategy to counter China's maritime expansion and uphold international maritime law.

Meanwhile, US and Chinese officials have agreed on a framework to prevent tariffs on Chinese imports starting November 1 and to finalize a deal regarding TikTok sales in the US, signaling progress in trade negotiations.

Two US Navy aircraft, a helicopter and a fighter jet from the USS Nimitz, crashed during separate incidents over the South China Sea, with all crew members rescued and in stable condition, prompting investigations into the causes.

These incidents have coincided with increased Chinese military actions, such as a fighter jet releasing flares dangerously close to an Australian surveillance plane, raising concerns over regional safety and professionalism.

The crashes occurred while President Donald Trump was visiting Asia for the ASEAN Summit, amid escalating trade tensions and diplomatic engagements with Chinese officials.

The USS Nimitz's final deployment, which includes these recent incidents, highlights the shifting landscape of US naval assets as the vessel is scheduled for retirement next year, marking the end of an era for the historic carrier.

The USS Nimitz has recently visited Bahrain and is now returning through contested waters near China, emphasizing the ongoing strategic importance of its operations in the Indo-Pacific region.