USS Benfold went days without power in the South China Sea

The guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold suffered a power outage in the South China Sea, lasting for four days, according to a Navy spokesperson. Commander Matthew Comer confirmed there were no injuries among the crew. The loss of power affected basic amenities such as plumbing, meals, toilets, and air conditioning. The issue was not disclosed publicly for nearly a month.

The vessel was in the South China Sea, a region known for its uncooperative waters. The USS Benfold was shielded by other naval assets nearby, preventing it from being an easy target. The ship received assistance from the George Washington Carrier Strike Group and the USS Robert Smalls, which provided meals. The USS Benfold was towed to Subic Bay, Philippines, for repairs and was attended by experts from the Ship Repair Facility - Japan Regional Maintenance Center on July 28.

Power was restored on July 30, and all systems were functioning normally by August 7. The power outage was first reported by USNI News. The incident comes at a time when the USS Abraham Lincoln, currently deployed in the Middle East for nine months, is also under scrutiny due to concerns about living conditions and the potential impact on mental health.

A U.S. official suggested that the USS George Washington will soon replace the Lincoln in the Middle East.