Two US Navy ships, the USS Truxtun and the USNS Supply, collided while refueling in waters near South America, resulting in minor injuries to two crew members.
On Wednesday, September 11, two ships of the United States Navy were involved in a collision in waters close to South America, as reported by the American newspaper 'The Wall Street Journal.' The incident involved the guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun and the tanker USNS Supply at the time of refueling operations. According to Colonel Emmanuel Ortiz, spokesman for the U.S. Southern Command, the specifics of the location and the reasons for the collision remain unclear, and an investigation has been launched to ascertain the exact circumstances.
While there were only minor injuries reported among the crew, the incident highlights the potential dangers of naval operations. Historically, collisions involving naval ships can have severe consequences. The article recalls previous tragic incidents in 2017 where 17 U.S. sailors lost their lives due to similar collisions between destroyers and merchant vessels in the Pacific. This underlines the inherent risks present in maritime operations, especially during complex maneuvers such as refueling at sea.
The rarity of such collisions involving warships amplifies the significance of this incident. The U.S. Navy has stringent operational protocols to ensure the safety and efficiency of naval operations, and any deviation can lead to serious outcomes. As investigation continues, it will be essential for the Navy to reassess its procedures to prevent future occurrences and to understand any lapses that may have resulted in this incident.
