2 US Navy Ships Collide in the Caribbean

The destroyer USS Truxtun and the supply ship USNS Supply collided, leaving two troops with minor injuries.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Two Navy ships deployed as part of the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean Sea have collided, leaving two troops with minor injuries, according to U.S. Southern Command. The collision occurred on Wednesday as the warship USS Truxtun was getting a new load of supplies from the USNS Supply.

Why it matters

Collisions between Navy ships are rare, and this incident raises questions about the safety and coordination of the large naval presence the Trump administration has built up in the Caribbean region in recent years, including the world's largest aircraft carrier and several amphibious assault ships.

The details

The maneuver typically has the vessels sailing parallel, usually within hundreds of feet, while fuel and supplies are transferred across the gap via hoses and cables. The military statement said two personnel reported minor injuries after the collision and that both were in stable condition. The two ships are now sailing safely, according to Southern Command.

  • The collision occurred on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • The USS Truxtun left its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, on February 3, 2026 and had to return to port for several days to conduct 'an emergent equipment repair' before setting sail for the Caribbean on February 6, 2026.

The players

USS Truxtun

A Navy destroyer that was involved in the collision.

USNS Supply

A Navy supply ship that was involved in the collision.

U.S. Southern Command

The U.S. military command responsible for operations in the Caribbean region, which reported on the collision.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

An investigation into the cause of the collision is expected to be launched by the Navy.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks and challenges of the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean, which has included a large naval presence in the region. It raises questions about the coordination and safety protocols in place to prevent such collisions between Navy ships.