Two U.S. Navy sailors were injured Wednesday after a collision between two U.S. vessels in the Caribbean, according to officials.
A spokesperson for U.S. Southern Command said the USS Truxtun, an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, and the USNS Supply collided during a routine replenishment-at-sea operation. The incident occurred while the ships were conducting a ship-to-ship refueling maneuver.
Officials said two personnel sustained minor injuries and are reported to be in stable condition. Both vessels remained operational following the incident and were able to continue sailing safely. The cause of the collision is currently under investigation.
Replenishment-at-sea operations involve ships traveling side by side to transfer fuel and supplies, a complex process that requires careful coordination and communication. While vessels such as the Supply are owned by the Navy, they are typically operated by civilian mariners.
The Truxtun recently deployed from its home port at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, as part of an increased U.S. military presence in the region aimed at countering drug trafficking and supporting regional security operations.