Navy Aircraft Carriers Keep Proving They Are Almost Unsinkable

The USS Harry S. Truman, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, collided with the merchant vessel Besiktas-M in the Mediterranean Sea near Port Said, Egypt, on February 12. The incident has raised concerns about maritime safety and the crowded nature of the waters in that region.

Aircraft Carrier and 53,000 Ton Merchant Ship Collide

According to the US Navy’s Sixth Fleet Public Affairs Office, the collision between the USS Harry S. Truman and the Besiktas-M did not result in any injuries or flooding on the carrier. The propulsion plants of the aircraft carrier remain unaffected, and the incident is currently under investigation. Reports indicate that the damage to the carrier is above the waterline and did not impact any aircraft on deck. The Besiktas-M, a bulk carrier with a deadweight of 53,000 tons, was heading towards the Black Sea port of Constanța, Romania, after transiting the Suez Canal.

Crowded Space

The collision with the USS Truman occurred in a crowded anchorage area near Port Said, Egypt. The incident highlighted the importance of ships having their Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders switched on to ensure safe navigation in busy maritime areas. The damage to the ship’s elevator no. 3 could potentially impact its ability to conduct air operations, particularly in a region where high operational tempo is common. The USS Truman had faced previous attacks from Houthi rebels, underscoring the challenges of conducting military operations in the area.

US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier crashes with cargo vessel

Traffic History

The Besiktas-M has a history of collisions at sea, with a previous incident involving the M/V Common Spirit near Chittagong, Bangladesh in August 2016. The collision with the USS Harry S. Truman adds to the ship’s record of maritime incidents. The investigation into the recent collision will shed light on the circumstances leading to the accident and potential measures to enhance maritime safety in the region.

About the Author: Reuben F. Johnson

Reuben F. Johnson, an expert on foreign military affairs, provides insights into the implications of the collision between the USS Harry S. Truman and the Besiktas-M. With a background in defense technology and weapon systems design, Johnson’s analysis offers valuable perspectives on the incident and its broader implications for maritime security and naval operations.