Two US Navy vessels collided during a routine replenishment-at-sea operation in the Caribbean on Wednesday, leaving two sailors injured, US military officials confirmed late on Thursday.
The incident involved the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG-103) and the Supply-class fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE-6) while they were conducting a standard refuelling manoeuvre, in which ships sail side by side to transfer fuel and supplies.
US Southern Command stated that both injured personnel are in stable condition. Both ships sustained only minor damage and remained fully operational, allowing them to continue sailing safely.
Video footage circulating online appears to capture the moment of contact between the Truxtun and the Supply, with both vessels still underway. The exact location has not been disclosed, but the incident occurred within the area of responsibility of US Southern Command, which covers the Caribbean Sea, parts of the South Atlantic, and surrounding regions.
Naval officials have not yet released details on the cause of the collision. A formal investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances, assess damage, and identify any procedural or operational factors involved.
The mishap, though not severe, comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, particularly between the United States and Iran.
Both nations have exchanged threats of military strikes should conflict erupt, even as diplomatic efforts continue to seek a bilateral resolution.
Regional security experts have cautioned that any miscalculation involving the United States, Iran, or Israel could rapidly escalate, potentially leading to widespread chaos and significant loss of life across the Middle East, including among US personnel stationed at regional bases.
