Joint Atlantic Thunder Exercise
US and UK Forces Sink Decommissioned Frigate During Joint Exercise off Scotland
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The United States and United Kingdom sank the decommissioned frigate USS Klakring during Exercise Atlantic Thunder 2026, a joint live-fire exercise in the North Atlantic off Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. The ship was struck by a missile launched from the U.S. destroyer USS Paul Ignatius, with a torpedo and coordinated actions by allied ships, aircraft and forces also reported. U.S. Navy officials said the frigate underwent cleaning and hazardous-material removal, and marine mammals were checked for before the exercise. U.S. commanders said the operation tested long-range, multi-domain maritime targeting and demonstrated the allies’ ability to coordinate and share information, as well as sending a strategic message to potential adversaries.
Key Points
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The 4,100-ton USS Klakring sank in roughly 6,000 feet of water. Exercise Atlantic Thunder ran from September 14 to 25 and also involved the USS Massachusetts, HMS Portland, the U.S. Air Force and the Royal Air Force.
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The exercise was originally planned for May but was delayed by four months. Before crossing the Atlantic, the Klakring was towed down the Delaware River on August 12 and later taken to Campbeltown, Scotland, for preparation.
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The UK Defence Journal reported that the exercise tested more than strike capability: commanders aimed to coordinate mission planning and engagements, share a common tactical picture and situational awareness, and practise pre-planned responses across forces.
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The sinking followed a similar Atlantic Thunder exercise in September 2022, when the decommissioned USS Boone was sunk with participation from HMS Westminster, a Wildcat helicopter and three RAF Typhoons.
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