The US Navy disclosed that the USS Harry S. Truman, an aircraft carrier, was involved in a collision with the merchant ship Besiktas-M in the Mediterranean Sea near Egypt’s Port Said on Wednesday evening.
Commander Timothy Gorman, a spokesperson for the US Sixth Fleet, said the incident occurred on Wednesday evening.
Commander Gorman reassured that the collision posed no critical threat to the structural integrity of the Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “There are no reports of flooding or injuries among the crew, and the ship’s propulsion systems remain safe and stable,” he noted. Details regarding the state of the Besiktas-M, which operates under a Panamanian flag, were not immediately provided.
The US Navy has initiated an investigation to ascertain the specifics of the incident. The outcome will determine the next steps and potential measures to prevent future occurrences.
The United States maintains a robust global naval presence, with aircraft carriers like the USS Harry S. Truman deployed strategically. These vessels, essential to US defence strategy, host thousands of sailors and are equipped with numerous aircraft.
This incident follows a recent event in December when two US Navy pilots ejected safely after their F/A-18 warplane was accidentally shot down by a US-guided missile cruiser over the Red Sea during operations involving the Truman.
The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the collision and ensure the continued safety and operational readiness of US naval forces.
