USS Truman’s Nuclear Propulsion System Remains Safe After Collision Off Egypt
The USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier collided with the Panamanian cargo ship Besiktas-M off the coast of Egypt. There were no injuries or flooding reported on the Truman, and its nuclear propulsion system remains safe. The cargo ship suffered damage but no crew injuries, and an investigation into the collision is ongoing.
The USS Harry S. Truman, an aircraft carrier, collided with a merchant vessel, the Besiktas-M, during its mission in the Middle East, as confirmed by the Navy’s Sixth Fleet. This incident took place near Port Said, Egypt, at around midnight local time, a region known for its heavy maritime traffic due to proximity to the Suez Canal.
No flooding or injuries were reported aboard the Truman despite the collision, although the Navy did not confirm any structural damages to the ship. Crucially, the carrier’s nuclear propulsion system remains secure and stable, with both reactors unaffected by the incident.
The Besiktas-M is a bulk cargo ship registered under the Panamanian flag and was traveling from the Suez Canal to Romania at the time of the collision. The cargo vessel measures 620 feet in length and 105 feet in width, making it approximately half the size of the Truman, which is over 1,000 feet long with a flight deck width of 252 feet.
A Navy representative indicated that the Besiktas sustained some damage; however, its crew was unharmed. This incident follows a prior event involving the Truman, where friendly fire resulted in the loss of an F/A-18 jet and minor injuries to one sailor.
The Navy has launched an investigation into the collision, emphasizing the need for a thorough assessment. Additionally, they plan to provide updates on the investigation as more information is obtained.
The USS Truman’s collision with the Besiktas-M did not compromise its nuclear propulsion system, maintaining safety and operational integrity. While the cargo ship experienced some damage without injuries to its crew, further investigations into the collision are underway. The event highlights the challenges of navigating busy maritime traffic, especially near critical routes like the Suez Canal.
Original Source: www.military.com
