Two United States Navy vessels collided during a refueling operation in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in minor injuries to personnel.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the incident was first disclosed by The Wall Street Journal, citing military officials.
According to Colonel Emmanuel Ortiz, a spokesperson for the US Southern Command, the collision involved the Arleigh Burke-class guided-mille destroyer USS Truxtun and the fast combat support ship USNS Supply. Two individuals sustained minor injuries during the impact, though their conditions are reported as stable. Despite the contact, both vessels remained seaworthy and were able to continue their operations safely. The exact coordinates of the incident and the specific cause of the collision remain under investigation.
The collision occurred within the area of responsibility of the US Southern Command, which oversees military operations in Central and South America and the Caribbean. Under the administration of US President Donald Trump, the US Navy has maintained a consistent presence in these waters to conduct counter-narcotics operations and ensure maritime security. Refueling at sea, known as underway replenishment, is considered one of the most challenging routine maneuvers for naval vessels, requiring precise coordination and navigation in close proximity.
