US Navy destroyer USS Benfold loses power for four days in South China Sea

The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the operational strain and maintenance challenges facing the US Navy's surface fleet during global deployments.

• •The USS Benfold lost power on July 24 due to an engineering casualty involving its generators.
• •The ship remained without power for four days in the South China Sea.
• •Impacted systems included air conditioning, toilets, galley services, and potable water.
• •Daytime temperatures in the region during the incident averaged between 89 and 98 degrees Fahrenheit.
• •The USS Robert Smalls and other ships in the USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group provided food and aid.
• •The vessel was towed to Subic Bay, Philippines, for repairs.
• •Repairs were completed by August 8, and the ship returned to duty.
• •The incident is under official investigation by the US Navy.
• •A similar power loss occurred on the USS Higgins in May.
• •Arleigh Burke-class destroyers carry crews of 329 to 359 personnel.
• •The ship has a displacement of approximately 10,000 tons and is 500 feet long.