A US Navy replenishment ship, the USNS Big Horn, sustained damage after refueling vessels in the Middle East, according to officials on Tuesday. The ship had just resupplied the USS Abraham Lincoln, which remains deployed in the region amid ongoing tensions related to the Israel-Hamas conflict and Israeli operations targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Although the exact location of the incident has not been disclosed, an anonymous Navy official confirmed that the Big Horn’s crew was safe, and there were no reports of oil leaks. Tugboats are assisting the vessel to port, and an investigation is underway to assess the damage.
Give the gift of hope
We practice what we preach:
accurate, fearless journalism. But we can't do it alone.
- On the ground in Gaza, Syria, Israel, Egypt, Pakistan, and more
- Our program trained more than 100 journalists
- Calling out fake news and reporting real facts
- On the ground in Gaza, Syria, Israel, Egypt, Pakistan, and more
- Our program trained more than 100 journalists
- Calling out fake news and reporting real facts
Join us.
Support The Media Line. Save democracy.
Rumors of the ship’s condition surfaced earlier when images posted on the shipping website gCaptain showed alleged flooding on board, with some reports suggesting the vessel had run aground off Oman’s coast. The Big Horn typically operates with a crew of around 80 civilians and five military personnel.
While the damage is considered a logistical challenge, officials have stated that the strike group can continue operating. Destroyers can refuel in port, and aviation fuel can still be transported to the carrier to maintain the supply for fighter jets and surveillance aircraft. It is unclear if other replenishment ships are available in the region.