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Two injured as US Navy ships collide during refueling operation

Feb 12, 2026, 2:41 PM10
(Update: Feb 12, 2026, 2:41 PM)
country primarily in North America
maritime service branch of the United States Armed Forces

Two injured as US Navy ships collide during refueling operation

  • A US Navy destroyer and a supply ship collided during a refueling operation in South America.
  • Two personnel sustained minor injuries but are reported to be in stable condition.
  • The incident is under investigation, and both vessels continued their operations post-collision.
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On February 11, 2026, two US Navy vessels were involved in a collision during a refuel operation near South America. The incident, confirmed by the US military's Southern Command, involved the guided missile destroyer USS Truxtun and the fast combat support ship USNS Supply. During the replenishment-at-sea operation, two personnel reported minor injuries but were stated to be in stable condition. Their exact location during the incident was not disclosed. The military continues to investigate the incident to determine the cause of the collision. The USS Truxtun is a part of the Arleigh Burke-class of destroyers, known for their multi-mission capabilities, including anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare. The USNS Supply, a Supply-class fast combat support ship, has been operating in the Caribbean as part of the Southern Command’s efforts to control drug trafficking and enforce sanctions against countries like Venezuela. The US military has significantly increased its presence in the Caribbean as part of a campaign initiated under President Donald Trump's administration to combat drug smuggling and enhance regional security. In recent months, the Southern Command has reported a rise in military activities in response to various challenges in the region, including drug trafficking and geopolitical tensions. This particular collision is being scrutinized as it comes amidst a broader narrative of heightened military engagement. As of now, Southern Command has not released any further information regarding the nature of the refueling operation or specific actions that led to the collision. The military's investigations could lead to further outcomes, including adjustments in operational protocols or additional training for personnel engaged in complex refueling operations. There is public interest in understanding the circumstances that led to this collision, especially as the maritime operations conducted by the US Navy are critical in supporting regional stability and enforcing national security objectives. Overall, such incidents raise concerns regarding the safety measures in place for naval operations, especially when multiple ships interact closely in potentially contentious environments.

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