On May 17, 1987, the Oliver Hazard Perry class frigate, USS Stark (FFG 31) was hit by two Exocet anti-ship cruise missiles fired by an Iraqi F-1 Mirage fighter aircraft while operating in the central Persian Gulf. The explosion of the first missile caused extensive structural damage and flooding. Combustion of the burning propellant of both missiles immediately caused intense fires to build throughout the ship. There were 37 deaths and 5 injuries reported as a result of the attack.
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USS STARK
May 17, 1987