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Routine Naval Accident Reveals Critical Weakness In US Military
Are we neglecting critical logistical infrastructure?
A Navy fleet oiler, Big Horn, ran aground operating off of Oman in support of the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group. These types of incidents are not uncommon, especially in a combat zone like the one currently occurring in the Red Sea. These operational mishaps are expected during constant or intense operations. One ship suffering damage should not set off alarm bells throughout the military community but that is exactly what is happening.
The Big Horn is a Henry J. Kaiser-class replenishment oiler that is responsible for carrying valuable fuel into combat zones or in support of fleets operating far from home. Oilers, like their predecessor the collier, are vital components of any navy force. Without fuel, ships cannot sail. That has been the case since humans ditched sailcloth for turbines.
The trouble is that the Big Horn was the only oiler in the region operating in support of the carrier strike group. The loss of the oiler to damage leaves the navy in a sticky pickle. There is a combat tanker program in which certain oil tankers can be summoned by the navy in the case of emergencies to provide valuable oil. However, the ships receiving the oil have to be fitted with a special coupling that…
