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Mount Whitney Successfully Refuels in Rough Seas

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090621-09
Release Date: 6/21/2009 12:33:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael T. Rumbach, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

USS MOUNT WHITNEY, At Sea (NNS) -- Despite nine to 12 foot seas and 35-40 mile-per-hour winds, USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) completed an underway replenishment (UNREP) without incident June 12 while paricipating in the 2009 Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise.

Whitney pulled alongside USNS John Lenthall (T-AO 189) for refueling, allowing the ship to continue its mission without delay.

"The big benefit of underway replenishment is not having to stop and get fuel, food or supplies ashore or while anchored, so the ship can stay on track while transiting from point A to point B," said Lt. Cmdr. A.J. Gloria, BALTOPS surface operations and assistant exercise planner.

There are several risks involved with an UNREP. Long hoses are extended between the supplying ship and the receiving ship to transfer fuel. UNREPs require ships to be between 120-180 feet apart when refueling, making the operation inherently dangerous.

"Ships this close must be fully aware of the unforgiving power of the sea and the Venturi effect they create," said Gloria. "The bridge crew needs to be constantly aware, looking out not just for proximity to the supply ship but also for any other obstacles that may be around."

The Venturi effect is a phenomenon that occurs when the area water travels through gets constricted. This diminishes pressure, potentially allowing two objects, like refueling ships, to collide. Ships' speed and water depth are also factors, explained Gloria.

Mount Whitney participated in BALTOPS, which was the largest multi-national naval exercise in 2009 in the Baltic Sea. Annually hosted by the U.S. Navy, the exercise aims to improve maritime security through increased interoperability and cooperation among regional allies.

Mount Whitney, home ported in Gaeta, Italy, is the flagship for Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet and routinely operates throughout the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility with a hybrid crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command Civilian Mariners.