In a show of constant vigilance, alarms rang on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier in the Red Sea at 4 a.m. on Tuesday, prompting personnel to prepare for potential flight operations against a Houthi drone flying over nearby ships. Fortunately, the drone proved to be non-threatening, highlighting the ever-present danger posed by Iran-backed militants in Yemen.

CNN gained exclusive access aboard the USS Eisenhower and the USS Gravely, two vessels at the forefront of the US response to Houthi attacks in the southern Red Sea. Sailors and pilots shared their concerns, emphasizing the unpredictable and unprecedented nature of the Houthi threat.

The US Navy has been working tirelessly, deploying jets and firing missiles at a moment's notice in a bid to destroy the Houthis' weapons and infrastructure. However, despite numerous strikes over the past month, it remains uncertain how much of the Houthi capabilities have been eradicated or how long it will take to fully deter them.

Rear Admiral Marc Miguez, the commander of Carrier Strike Group Two, described the situation as a challenging and elusive problem that lacks sufficient information. The US had not paid close attention to the Houthis prior to their missile attacks in the Red Sea, unlike state actors such as Iran, Russia, and China.

The Houthis' attacks mark the first instance of using anti-ship ballistic missiles in combat, posing a steep learning curve for the personnel on board the warships. Captain James Huddleston, the deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing 3, acknowledged the inherent risks of operating in an unfamiliar region but expressed confidence in managing the risk through combat power management.

Dozens of fighter jets take off daily from the USS Eisenhower, prepared to carry out strikes against Houthi targets at a moment's notice. These jets are equipped with air-to-ground missiles for immediate response to threats. Understanding the gravity of the situation, the sailors and pilots are prepared for anything the Houthis may throw their way.

The Houthis have also adapted their tactics, increasingly using drones to target and attack ships. Their weapon of choice, the long-range Samad-3 drone, often carries an explosive payload. Furthermore, the Defense Intelligence Agency has identified Iranian-made drones being deployed by the Houthis.

The impact of the Houthis' attacks has made Iran apprehensive, as they have strained relationships with some of Iran's allies, particularly China and India. Recent shifts in strategy, including the relocation of Iran's suspected spy ship from the southern Red Sea to the coast of Djibouti, have hindered the Houthis' capability to track ships in the Gulf of Aden.

Meanwhile, onboard the USS Gravely destroyer, sailors are on high alert, poised to defend against incoming Houthi missiles and drones. With only seconds to respond, they rely on their training and advanced weaponry. On one occasion, the Gravely narrowly evaded a Houthi missile, resulting in an investigation into the incident.

The relentless Houthi barrages have prevented the USS Eisenhower and the nearby destroyers from making port calls for months, a highly unusual situation. Despite the stressful environment, the sailors remain resolute, finding solace in their mission and readiness to confront any challenge.

The USS Eisenhower's presence in the Red Sea exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the US Navy in countering the unpredictable threat posed by Houthi militants. As operations continue, the need for constant vigilance and strategic response remains paramount.