The former USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG-60), once a guided-missile frigate in the U.S. Navy, was intentionally sunk during a controlled SINKEX (sinking exercise) after being hit by an AGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missile. The operation marked the ship’s final role after decades of service, rather than a loss in combat.
Commissioned in 1982, the vessel belonged to the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates, built during the Cold War mainly for anti-submarine warfare and escort missions. Named after Medal of Honor recipient Rodney Maxwell Davis, the ship participated in patrols, multinational exercises, and maritime security operations around the world.
Before the exercise took place, crews removed hazardous materials and sensitive equipment to meet environmental regulations. The missile strike occurred as planned, allowing military analysts to study weapon effectiveness and ship durability. Although the event carried emotional significance for former crew members, the sinking ultimately provided valuable data to support naval training and future fleet development.
