Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

The USNS Big Horn, a replenishment oiler supporting the only US carrier strike group in the Middle East, sustained damage after reportedly running aground.

What’s the deal: The USNS Big Horn, a replenishment oiler, ran aground on Monday while operating within the US Navy’s 5th Fleet area of responsibility, which includes key waters such as the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Gulf of Oman. Running aground occurs when a ship or boat hits the seabed, causing it to become stuck or stranded. This can happen when the water is too shallow for the vessel’s draft (the depth of the ship below the waterline) or when the vessel strays from its intended course and encounters underwater obstacles such as sandbars, reefs, or rocks.

Damage: The grounding caused damage to the ship’s rudder post, leading to reports of flooding, though no injuries were reported. Photos and videos circulated online show the extent of the damage, with water being seen in parts of the ship.

Navy Comments: In a brief statement, The Navy said they were currently investigating the cause of the grounding, and no other vessels were affected by the incident. They added, “It would be inappropriate to speculate on the cause of damage at this time. All crew members are safe, and we are assessing the situation right now.” It’s unclear if the Navy will deploy an additional oiler or contract a vessel to support its vessels in the region.