U.S. Navy Destroyer and Supply Ship Collide During Operations off South America
Two U.S. Navy vessels collided while conducting routine operations in waters near South America on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in minor injuries to crew members. The incident involved the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun and the Supply-class fast combat support ship USNS Supply.
According to a statement from U.S. Southern Command, the collision occurred during a replenishment-at-sea maneuver, a standard but complex procedure used to transfer fuel and munitions between ships while they are underway. Officials confirmed that two personnel suffered minor injuries during the accident. Both individuals are reported to be in stable condition and did not require immediate medical evacuation.
Despite the collision, initial damage assessments indicate that both the USS Truxtun and the USNS Supply remain seaworthy. The vessels have reported that they are able to continue sailing safely under their own power.
Investigation and Uncertainties
While the collision has been confirmed, the specific cause remains unclear. Naval authorities have not yet released details regarding which vessel may have been at fault or if environmental factors played a role. A comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the precise circumstances that led to the vessels making contact. Furthermore, while the ships are currently operational, the full extent of the structural damage may require more detailed inspections once they reach port.
Background Information
Replenishment-at-sea (RAS) is considered one of the most dangerous routine evolutions in naval operations. It requires two massive vessels to steer parallel courses at matching speeds, often with only a widely varying distance of 100 to 200 feet between them, while heavy lines and fuel hoses are spanned across the water.
The incident took place within the area of responsibility of the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which oversees military operations in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. U.S. naval assets in this region are frequently deployed for counter-narcotics missions and to maintain maritime security. The USS Truxtun is a multi-mission destroyer capable of anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare, while the USNS Supply is designed to keep naval battle groups supplied with fuel, food, and ordnance, allowing them to remain at sea for extended periods.
timesnownews.com
brecorder.com
straitstimes.com
economictimes.com
gmanetwork.com
jpost.com
kyfreepress.com.au
youtube.com
