Washington, DC – A US Southern Command spokesman confirmed that a US warship and a naval supply vessel collided on Wednesday, February 11, during a replenishment at sea operation. The spokesman explained that the incident occurred during a Replenishment at Sea (RAS) operation, a routine but complex logistical procedure that requires the two ships to sail side-by-side at very close range, thus demanding precise coordination between the crews.
ships concerned
The USS Truxtun is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer of the U.S. Navy. The USNS Supply is a Supply-class fast combat supply ship, designed to provide naval support with fuel and provisions while at sea. According to international media reports, the incident occurred in waters near South America, likely in the Caribbean Sea or the South Atlantic.
Minor injuries reported; investigation underway.
Military spokesman Colonel Emmanuel Ortiz reported that the incident resulted in two minor injuries, adding that the injured were in stable condition. He also confirmed that neither vessel sustained serious damage and was able to continue sailing safely. An official investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the collision. This includes the possibility of human error, navigational conditions, or technical factors. No further details have been released at this time.
Routine operations
Officials indicated that the incident occurred during routine maritime operations conducted by U.S. Southern Command in the region. It was not related to any military escalation or regional tensions. Collisions during at-sea replenishment operations are relatively rare, but they have occurred in the past. These incidents have prompted reviews and enhanced operational safety measures within the U.S. Navy.
