The Incident

The USS John S. McCain, a Seawolf-class attack submarine, collided with the oil tanker Alnic MC on August 21, 2017, while operating in the busy waters of the Strait of Malacca between Malaysia and Indonesia.

The incident occurred around 5:24 am local time as the submarine was traveling northbound through the strait. The collision caused significant damage to the McCain’s hull, resulting in flooding of its compartments and rendering it unable to dive or operate effectively.

According to an investigation by the US Navy, the collision was the result of a combination of human error and technical malfunctions. The submarine’s command team had failed to properly monitor its surroundings, including other vessels in the area, while also experiencing technical issues with its sonar system. Additionally, the investigation found that the Alnic MC’s crew had not taken adequate precautions to avoid the collision, such as adjusting their vessel’s speed or altering its course. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and situational awareness for both submarine and surface vessel crews operating in busy shipping lanes.

Causes of the Collision

Human Error: A Key Factor in the Collision

The investigation into the Seawolf-class submarine collision revealed that human error played a significant role in the incident. Inadequate communication and poor situational awareness among the crew members contributed to the mistake. The submarines’ commanders were responsible for ensuring the safe operation of their vessels, but they failed to adequately monitor their surroundings and communicate effectively with each other.

  • Lack of clear boundaries: The submarine’s operating areas overlapped without a clear understanding of each vessel’s position, leading to confusion among the crew.
  • Insufficient training: Some crew members lacked adequate training in emergency procedures, which hindered their ability to respond quickly and effectively to the situation.
  • Fatigue and stress: The prolonged periods of operation without rest may have contributed to decreased alertness and attention among some crew members.

The combination of these factors led to a breakdown in communication and situational awareness, ultimately resulting in the collision.

Effects of the Collision

The collision between the two Seawolf-class submarines resulted in significant damage to both vessels. The USS Topeka suffered a 30-foot gash on its hull, causing water to flood into the propulsion room and rendering it unable to dive or operate effectively. The USS Hampton sustained a damaged propeller and a bent rudder, making it difficult to maneuver.

In terms of injuries and fatalities, two sailors were killed in the collision, while several others were injured, including some with severe burns. The incident was a tragic reminder of the risks involved in submarine operations and the importance of ensuring the safety of crew members.

The operational readiness of both submarines was severely impacted by the collision. The USS Topeka was forced to remain on the surface, unable to dive or operate its propulsion system, while the USS Hampton struggled to maneuver due to its damaged rudder and propeller. This had significant implications for the surrounding naval forces, as both submarines were no longer available for operational duty.

  • The collision also raised concerns about the effectiveness of safety procedures in place during submarine operations.
  • It highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to prevent technical malfunctions that could lead to accidents.
  • The incident served as a wake-up call for the naval forces to review and improve their safety protocols and emergency response procedures.

Investigation and Lessons Learned

The investigation into the Seawolf-class submarine collision was conducted by the US Navy’s Naval Reactors Branch and the Office of Naval Intelligence. The investigation team analyzed data from various sources, including radar and sonar recordings, as well as interviews with crew members from both submarines involved in the incident.

Key Findings

  • The primary cause of the collision was attributed to a combination of human error and inadequate communication between the two vessels.
  • One submarine’s captain failed to properly monitor his vessel’s speed and position, while the other submarine’s crew did not adequately communicate their intentions to change course.
  • Insufficient training on submarine maneuvering and communication procedures was also identified as a contributing factor.

Recommendations

  • Improve communication protocols between submarines during close-range operations.
  • Enhance training programs for submarine captains and crews on navigation and maneuvering techniques.
  • Implement additional safety measures, such as automated warning systems, to alert crew members of potential collisions.

The lessons learned from this incident emphasize the importance of effective communication and situational awareness in preventing underwater accidents. By implementing these recommendations, the US Navy can reduce the risk of similar collisions and improve overall submarine safety.

Prevention Strategies

Training

Effective training is crucial in preventing similar collisions in the future. Submarine crew members must be well-versed in navigation, communication, and emergency procedures to respond quickly and accurately in high-pressure situations. Regular drills and exercises can help identify areas for improvement and reinforce best practices.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance of submarine equipment and systems is vital to ensure optimal performance and prevent failures that could contribute to accidents. A robust maintenance schedule should include checks on critical systems such as propulsion, steering, and communication arrays.

Communication

Clear and effective communication between crew members, shore-based personnel, and other vessels at sea is essential for preventing collisions. Submarine crews must be equipped with reliable communication equipment and trained to use it effectively. Additionally, standardized protocols for reporting incidents and sharing information can help prevent misunderstandings that could lead to accidents.

  • Regular drills and exercises: Regularly conduct drills and exercises to test crew response times and identify areas for improvement.
  • Standardized protocols: Establish standardized protocols for reporting incidents and sharing information to prevent misunderstandings.
  • Crew training: Provide regular training on navigation, communication, and emergency procedures to ensure crew members are well-prepared in high-pressure situations.

In conclusion, the Seawolf-class submarine collision highlights the complexities and challenges involved in underwater navigation. By examining the contributing factors and lessons learned from this incident, we can improve our understanding of the risks associated with submarine operations and develop strategies for preventing future collisions.