A US Navy guided-missile destroyer operated without toilets, galley services or air conditioning for four days after losing power during Indo-Pacific operations, according to a report. The USS Benfold, an Arleigh Burke-class vessel, experienced an engineering failure with its generators on July 24, the US 7th Fleet confirmed. The breakdown took place as the Navy faces increased examination of its capacity for extended deployments while the United States conducts operations against Iran. The ship lost independent maneuvering ability along with galley services, toilets, air conditioning and potable water. The incident happened in the South China Sea, though the Navy did not specify the exact location. The cause is still under investigation. Other US warships assisted the Benfold, including the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls, which supplied cooked meals. Additional vessels from the Japan-based USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group also provided support. After four days, the destroyer was towed to Subic Bay in the Philippines for repairs, which finished on August 8, allowing it to return to duty. The event occurs amid growing Navy pressure from prolonged deployments and global commitments. The USS Benfold is linked to the strike group with the USS George Washington, now moving toward the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has spent over 240 days at sea supporting operations against Iran. Reports have noted low morale and mental health issues among its crew. The Navy continues to rely on its ships and carriers for operations in the Middle East while maintaining presence in the Indo-Pacific.
