Strike on Eternity-C Signals Advancing Houthi Anti Ship Missile Capabilities

The recent strike on the Greek owned bulk carrier Eternity-C highlights a significant evolution in the Houthi movement’s maritime strike capabilities, particularly in the coordination and accuracy of anti-ship missile systems. Preliminary assessments and imagery suggest that the vessel was engaged from a distance of at least 40 nautical miles, with the Houthis employing a layered combination of missile systems.

The attack reportedly involved both cruise and ballistic missiles. Chief among them was the Al Mandab-1, an anti ship cruise missile (ASCM) derived from the Chinese C-801 platform, featuring radar homing guidance. Also deployed was the Asef anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM), based on Iran’s Fateh-313, utilizing a combination of electro optical and infrared terminal guidance. Additional ASBM possibly of the Faleq or Bahr al Amar types, are also believed to have been launched as part of the strike package.

At least two missile impacts were confirmed, both striking the No. 5 hatch of the 5th cargo hold. Scorch marks were also noted near the No. 4 hatch, with indications of a potential hull penetration. Shrapnel or an additional projectile may have struck the vessel’s superstructure. It is likely that the pilot house (the Bridge) section was also targeted by a one-way attack drone, which may have contributed to the spread of fire into the crew accommodations and other critical areas.

Further structural analysis revealed serious damage to the engine room, including outward petalling of the steel hull, a deformation consistent with an internal blast. This contrasts with the concave or inward damage typically caused by external detonations.

Unlike the attack on the Magic Seas, for which the Houthis released synchronized impact footage, this strike was carried out without it. Following the attack, the Eternity-C began taking on water in the engine room, leading to progressive flooding. The vessel eventually sank stern first, a sequence indicative of severe aft compartment damage and loss of buoyancy. The bow briefly rose before the ship lost stability and sank entirely.

This incident represents a major escalation in Houthi maritime warfare capabilities. The effective use of combined ASBM and ASCM strikes, potentially in coordination with UAVs, demonstrates a growing sophistication in their targeting of commercial shipping.