A massive fire tore through the USS New Orleans, a 684-foot amphibious transport dock ship, off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, on Wednesday, leaving two sailors with minor injuries. The blaze, which raged for nearly 12 hours near White Beach Naval Facility, was extinguished with assistance from the USS San Diego’s crew, the Japanese coast guard, and military units. The US Navy’s 7th Fleet confirmed the incident, stating that the cause is under investigation.

The USS New Orleans, commissioned in 2007 and capable of carrying up to 800 personnel, was conducting operations when the fire broke out. Quick response from the ship’s crew and external support prevented further casualties, and the Navy has assured that the crew will remain aboard as assessments continue. No structural damage reports have been released, but the incident has raised concerns about safety protocols on naval vessels.

This fire echoes a devastating 2020 blaze on the USS Bonhomme Richard in San Diego, which burned for five days, resulting in extensive damage that led to the ship’s scrapping. A Navy report later highlighted systemic failures in command and crew response. That incident saw a sailor charged, though later acquitted, of arson. The recurrence of such fires has sparked renewed scrutiny of Navy safety measures and training.

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As the investigation into the USS New Orleans fire unfolds, questions linger about potential mechanical or human factors. The Navy has pledged a thorough review to prevent future incidents, while the injured sailors are receiving medical care. The event underscores the challenges of maintaining operational readiness in high-stakes maritime environments.

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