USS Benfold Leaves Japan After Returning from Power Failure Repairs
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer pulled into Yokosuka on Thursday, USNI News previously reported. About five days prior, Benfold left Subic Bay, Philippines, where it underwent repairs following an engineering casualty that left the ship stalled for four days without power in the South China Sea.
Benfold lost power on July 24. It was towed to Subic Bay on July 28. Power was restored two days later with all repairs completed by Aug. 7, Cmdr. Matt Comer, spokesperson for U.S. 7th Fleet previously told USNI News.
During the four days without power, Benfold lost air conditioning, galleys, toilets and showers. Potable water was also affected by the power failure.
Benfold was sailing with the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, which provided support during the four days without power. USS George Washington (CVN-73), cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG-62) and destroyer USS Shoup (DDG-86) transited the Malacca Strait last week after making a westbound transit through the Singapore Strait.
The George Washington CSG is expected to relieve the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Middle East. USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), which has been deployed for 269 days, is heading home, in part due to an uproar by families over conditions aboard the ship.
Abe has been at sea for 248 consecutive days, with its last port call in Guam in December.
It is unclear if Benfold will now head toward the Middle East to join with the rest of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group.
