Two US Navy ships collide during refueling operation in the Caribbean

On Wednesday, February 11, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun and the fast combat support ship USNS Supply collided during an underway replenishment operation in the Caribbean Sea. According to Colonel Emmanuel Ortiz, a spokesperson for US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), two individuals sustained minor injuries and are currently in stable condition. The collision occurred while the vessels were moving parallel to each other during the refueling process. Despite material damage, officials reported that both ships were able to continue sailing safely. The USS Truxtun had departed from its base in Norfolk, Virginia, on February 6 for a scheduled mission, while the USNS Supply was already operating in the Caribbean region. The exact location of the incident within SOUTHCOM's area of responsibility has not been specifyied. Investigations into the cause of the collision are currently underway. This incident follows a period of increased US military activity in the region associated with counter-narcotics operations.