Accident
This is going to be extremely expensive: two British Navy ships collide at the pier
Two Royal Navy warships are damaged: The “HMS Chiddingfold” recently collided with the “HMS Bangor” while backing up – what remains are many questions and an immense hole.
No injuries – but major damage to the image
The “Mirror” writes that no one was injured in the accident, but describes the crash as “embarrassing.” A Navy spokesman said: “We know of an incident with two mine hunters in Bahrain. There are no injuries and it would be inappropriate to comment further while the investigation is ongoing.”
“USS Harry S. Truman”
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The two ships, which according to tracking service providers are still in the harbor basin, should now be inspected for damage. Circulating on X, formerly Twitter Pictures of the “HMS Bangor”on which a torn side wall can be seen.
The picture in question is quite interesting because it shows the special nature of the “HMS Bangor”. As a minesweeper, the ship, similar to the “HMS Chiddingfold”, is not made of steel, but of fiberglass. In addition, all internals are made of so-called non-ferrous metals in order to reduce the magnetic signature to a minimum. This allows the special ships to navigate some types of minefields without the mines exploding.
Both ships, which have apparently been involved in Operation “Kipion” so far, will have to suspend their operations for the time being. How long is not known.
Operation Kipion is a long-standing UK air and naval presence in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean to promote stability in the region and ensure the safe flow of oil and trade.
Not the first collision of the “HMS Chiddingfold”
The “HMS Chiddingfold” is likely to become a running joke in the British Navy as the ship, according to a report by “Daily Mail” was involved in an accident with the “HMS Penzance” less than three years ago. At that time, the crew was also trying to dock in the port of Bahrain when they collided twice with the other ship. At that time, the accident caused two large holes, which took months to repair.
According to the Royal Navy, the incident on March 16, 2021 was caused by “wind, tides and equipment failures.” It is also said to have happened at night. In any case, the video of the current accident doesn’t make the crew look good – because the “HMS Bangor” could actually have been recognized without any problems. The investigation will have to show why it failed this time.