American Warship Engulfed in Flames: Fire Took 12 Hours to Extinguish

Kokcha News Agency – A fire erupted on the U.S. Navy warship USS New Orleans, which was docked at the White Beach military port in Okinawa, Japan. The fire started at 4:00 PM local time and was finally extinguished at 4:00 AM the following morning, after a grueling 12-hour effort.

Firefighting operations were supported by the Japan Coast Guard (Kaiho) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF). During the incident, two U.S. Navy personnel sustained minor injuries and were treated on board the ship. Footage broadcast by Japan’s NHK television showed thick black smoke rising from the ship’s bow for an extended period.

Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that if the fire had not been contained, it could have led to a “major disaster for the island’s residents.” The cause of the fire is still under investigation, according to Kyodo News Agency.

The USS New Orleans, as described on the U.S. Navy’s official website, is capable of simultaneously launching and landing two Osprey transport aircraft on its deck.