USS Porter (DDG-78) Heavily Damaged After Collision with Oil Tanker in Persian Gulf.

The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) sustained heavy damage after a collision with the oil tanker MV Otowasan in the Persian Gulf. The much larger tanker slammed into the destroyer’s starboard side, delivering a powerful impact that severely compromised the ship’s hull. Visible structural damage included bent and warped hull plating, ripped metal, and significant deformation along the point of contact. In multiple sections, the outer hull was breached, exposing internal compartments and equipment. The force of the strike also affected the deck edge and adjacent areas, displacing various fittings and fixtures.Fortunately, the crew responded swiftly and professionally. Damage control parties moved quickly to contain flooding and secure the affected spaces, preventing further escalation. No fatalities occurred, and only minor injuries were reported among the crew. Following the incident, USS Porter was withdrawn from operational duties and towed to a repair facility. Extensive repairs were conducted to restore the damaged hull sections and bring the warship back to full service readiness.