US Navy destroyer spent four days without power last month in South China Sea

A U.S. Navy destroyer, the USS Benfold, experienced a complete loss of power for four days last month while conducting operations in the South China Sea. The incident, which occurred on July 24, 2026, was attributed to an "engineering casualty involving its generators," according to Cmdr. Matthew Comer, a spokesperson for the U.S. 7th Fleet. The exact cause of the generator failure remains under investigation.

During the extensive power outage, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer was rendered immobile, and its crew faced challenging conditions without essential services such as working toilets, galley services for hot meals, air conditioning in the hot climate, and a reliable supply of potable water. Another vessel, the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls, provided support by supplying meals to the Benfold's crew.

The USS Benfold was eventually towed to Subic Bay in the Philippines for repairs. Power was successfully restored on July 30, and after further maintenance, the destroyer departed Subic Bay on August 8 with all systems fully operational, resuming its routine duties within the U.S. 7th Fleet's area of responsibility. No injuries to the crew were reported during the incident, with officials commending their resilience.