USS Connecticut nearly sunk due to poor oversight and execution

On October 2, 2021, the United States Navy's USS Connecticut (SSN-22) submarine collided with a bathymetric feature while en route to Okinawa for a humanitarian evacuation. This incident resulted in substantial damage to the submarine and injuries to several sailors on board. After the collision, Connecticut was able to surface and navigate back to Guam, where a thorough investigation was launched to assess the circumstances surrounding the mishap. The investigation revealed that the navigation review team had failed to adequately mark ten underwater hazards in the area, leading to the accident. Rather than a systemic failure, the investigation characterized the event as an “anomalous performance,” attributing the cause to poor watch team execution, weak risk management, and a relaxed command climate. These findings highlighted issues within the operational protocols and oversight of Navy submarines that need urgent attention. USS Connecticut is a Seawolf-class fast attack submarine designed during the Cold War, intended to confront the Soviet Union's prolific Typhoon-class submarines. However, the program faced budgetary challenges, leading to only three submarines being produced after the collapse of the Soviet Union. After her introduction to the fleet, Connecticut participated in various operations, including deployments in multiple threat theaters and serving with the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group during the War on Terror. In 2019, the submarine underwent a significant overhaul costing over $17 million, yet this collision oversight indicated operational lapses that pose serious risks to naval personnel and assets. These failures suggest a culture of caution may be needed to prevent future incidents and safeguard the Navy’s submarines and their crews.