Collision Involving USS Harry S. Truman Aircraft Carrier
Introduction
On February 12, 2023, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) was involved in a collision with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M near Port Said, Egypt, in the Mediterranean Sea.
Collision Details
According to the U.S. Navy’s Sixth Fleet Public Affairs, the collision occurred at approximately 11:46 p.m. local time while the Truman was operating in the vicinity of Port Said. The collision did not result in any flooding or injuries to personnel on board the aircraft carrier. The ship’s propulsion plants remained unaffected and in a stable condition.
Ongoing Investigation
The U.S. Navy has initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. The details surrounding the incident have not yet been released.
USS Harry S. Truman Deployment
The Truman, based in Norfolk, Virginia, had been deployed to the Mediterranean and Middle East since September 2022. It had recently completed a port call in Souda Bay, Greece.
Mission Capabilities
The USS Harry S. Truman is equipped to perform a wide range of maritime security operations, including:
- Expeditionary power projection
- Forward naval presence
- Crisis response
- Sea control
- Deterrence
- Counter-terrorism
- Information operations
- Security cooperation
Its embarked air wing provides tactical air power projection capabilities over sea and land, as well as sea-based air, surface, and subsurface defense capabilities.
Previous Incidents Involving the USS Harry S. Truman
In December 2022, two U.S. Navy pilots were shot down over the Red Sea in an incident that was initially believed to be friendly fire. The F/A-18 aircraft involved had just taken off from the USS Harry S. Truman carrier. Both pilots survived and were rescued.
Navy Response
The U.S. Navy is committed to the safe operation of its vessels and personnel. The investigation into the collision with the merchant vessel is ongoing, and appropriate measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The collision between the USS Harry S. Truman and the merchant vessel Besiktas-M is a reminder of the challenges and risks involved in naval operations. The U.S. Navy remains committed to maintaining the safety and integrity of its vessels and safeguarding the well-being of its personnel.
