Two U.S. Navy ships were involved in a mid‑sea collision during a routine replenishment‑at‑sea operation in waters near South America on Wednesday, leaving two personnel with minor injuries but no significant damage to either vessel, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Collision During Complex Refueling Maneuver
The incident occurred as the Arleigh Burke‑class guided‑missile destroyer USS Truxtun and the Supply‑class fast combat support ship USNS Supply conducted a refueling operation while underway — a procedure that requires both vessels to maintain precise parallel courses while fuel and supplies are transferred between them.
During the maneuver, the two ships made unintended contact. Southern Command confirmed that two sailors sustained minor injuries and are in stable condition. Both vessels remained seaworthy and continued sailing after the collision.
Location and Cause Under Investigation
Officials have not disclosed the exact location of the collision, citing operational security, though multiple reports confirm it occurred in waters within the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility, which includes South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of the South Atlantic.
The cause of the collision remains unknown. Investigators are expected to review navigational data, communication logs, and crew procedures to determine whether environmental factors, mechanical issues, or human error contributed to the incident.
Operational Context
The USS Truxtun had recently departed its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, for deployment, while the USNS Supply had been operating in the Caribbean. Both ships were supporting ongoing U.S. missions in the region, including maritime security and counter‑narcotics operations.
Replenishment‑at‑sea operations are routine but technically demanding. Even slight miscalculations in speed, distance, or sea conditions can lead to hull contact, making safety protocols and communication critical.
Broader Regional Activity
The collision comes amid heightened U.S. naval activity in the region, where operations have intensified in recent months as part of efforts to counter drug trafficking and maintain maritime security.
Next Steps
U.S. Southern Command has launched a formal investigation. Both vessels continue to operate safely, and no major structural damage has been reported.
