What Damaged a US Submarine: Notable Incidents and Impacts

The history of US submarines is strewn with notable incidents of accidents and damage, often caused by maritime hazards, collisions, and operational errors. From undersea mountains to other vessels, these events have resulted in significant loss of life, damage to valuable assets, and impact on ongoing operations. This article delves into some of the most significant incidents.

The USS Connecticut (SSN-22): Colliding with an Undersea Mountain in 2021

One of the more recent and notable incidents involving US submarines occurred in 2021 when the USS Connecticut (SSN-22) collided with an underwater mountain while operating at full speed. This event underscores the challenges faced by modern submarines in operating in challenging oceanic environments.

Collision Details

The collision took place on January 8, 2005, around 02:43 GMT. The USS San Francisco (SSN-711) was traveling at flank speed (maximum speed) at a depth of 525 feet (160 meters) when it struck an undersea mountain, causing significant damage to the submarine. The vessel was forced to surface and was towed by the United States Coast Guard Cutter Galveston Island (WHEC-721) and the Navy tug USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham (T-ARS-50) to Guam for repairs.

The USS San Francisco (SSN-711): A Grave Incident in 2005

The USS San Francisco collided with a seamount on January 8, 2005, during an exercise in the Pacific Ocean. The collision caused severe damage to the submarine, including ruptured forward ballast tanks and a damaged sonar dome. Although the pressure hull was not breached and the submarine's nuclear reactor remained safe, multiple crew members sustained injuries, leading to the death of one sailor.

Injuries and Casualties

Among the 98 injured crewmen, Machinist's Mate Second Class Joseph Allen Ashley, 24, died from head injuries on January 9, 2005. Other injuries included broken bones, spinal injuries, and lacerations. The submarine responded by surface and arrived in Guam on January 10, 2005, where it was assisted by the US Coast Guard, Navy tugs, and air patrols.

Other Notable Incidents Involving US Submarines

Beyond these more recent events, multiple historical incidents involving US submarines highlight the perils faced in naval operations. For instance, the USS Thresher (SSN-593) sank in 1963 due to an unknown cause during a routine dive, while the USS Scorpion (SSN-589) was lost in the Atlantic in 1968. Both cases remain subject to speculation regarding the exact nature of these disasters, turning them into symbolic landmarks in submarine history.

Collide with a Tanker in 2002

In another significant collision, the USS Oklahoma City (SSN-697) lost a major section of its bow, visible on radar, after a collision with a Japanese-owned tanker. This incident, which occurred on February 7, 2002, in the Strait of Malacca, highlighted the challenges submarines face in navigating through crowded shipping lanes.

Financial and Operational Consequences

The damage to US submarines can have severe financial and operational consequences. Routine repairs and refits can be extensive, costing millions of dollars and temporarily halting operational readiness. Moreover, incidents like these disrupt crew morale and can have long-term effects on the submarine's maintenance and readiness.

Strategies to Mitigate Risks

To mitigate the risks associated with undersea hazards and collisions, naval forces have implemented a range of strategies. These include:

Enhanced navigational systems to improve situational awareness Regular drills and exercises to prepare crews for emergencies Advanced sonar and acoustic sensors to detect underwater obstacles Proper maintenance schedules and inspections to ensure equipment readiness Training and education programs for submarine personnel on safety and navigation techniques

Conclusion

From the USS Connecticut's 2021 incident to the USS San Francisco's 2005 collision, the history of US submarines is filled with remarkable moments of resilience and bravery. These incidents serve as lessons for modern naval operations, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures, advanced technology, and ongoing training to safeguard these vital assets.