Nuclear submarine strikes underwater mountain

 The USS San Francisco (SSN-711) was involved in a major underwater collision on January 8, 2005, while operating in the Pacific Ocean. Here are some details about the incident:

Collision Details:

1. Location: The incident occurred approximately 350 miles southwest of Guam.

2. Depth: The submarine was operating at a depth of around 525 feet.

3. Speed: The USS San Francisco was traveling at a speed of about 20-25 knots.

4. Impact: The submarine struck an underwater mountain, which caused significant damage to its bow.

The USS San Francisco's collision with an underwater mountain on January 8, 2005, had severe consequences. The impact was so intense that the vessel almost sank, and the crew fought desperately to maintain positive buoyancy and surface. Unfortunately, Machinist's Mate Second Class Joseph Allen Ashley, 24, lost his life due to head injuries sustained during the collision.

Ninety-eight crew members were injured, with some suffering broken bones, spinal injuries, and lacerations. The submarine itself suffered significant damage, with ruptured forward ballast tanks and a severely damaged sonar dome. However, fortunately, the pressure hull and nuclear reactor remained intact.

The incident led to a thorough investigation, which revealed that critical navigational and voyage planning procedures were not followed. This oversight resulted in the captain being relieved of his command and six crew members receiving non-judicial punishment hearings. The investigation also highlighted the need for improved charting and navigation procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Damage and Repairs:

1. Extent of damage: The collision damaged the submarine's bow, sonar dome, and forward ballast tanks.

2. Repair cost: Estimates suggested a repair cost of around $100-150 million.

3. Repair duration: The repairs took approximately 2 years to complete.

Investigation and Findings:

1. Investigation: The US Navy conducted an investigation into the incident.

2. Causes: The investigation found that inadequate navigation and charting procedures contributed to the collision.

3. Recommendations: The Navy implemented changes to its navigation procedures to prevent similar incidents.

Awards and Recognition:

1. Heroism: The crew's prompt response and damage control efforts prevented more severe consequences.

2. Awards: The crew received several awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation.

The USS San Francisco returned to service after repairs and continues to serve as a vital asset in the US Navy's submarine fleet and is currently a moored training ship at the Nuclear Power School.¹ After a storied career spanning over four decades, the submarine was decommissioned on May 15, 2022.

Its journey to this point was marked by a significant incident in 2005, where it collided with an underwater mountain while operating at flank speed, resulting in the loss of one life and injuries to 98 crew members. The submarine underwent extensive repairs, including a bow replacement, and returned to service in 2009.

Key Milestones:

- Decommissioning: May 15, 2022

- Conversion to Moored Training Ship: Completed in mid-2021

- Final Deployment: Returned to Point Loma in October 2016

- Collision Incident: January 8, 2005

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