US Navy kept nuclear sub accident secret
AN American nuclear-powered submarine ran aground last month off the north
coast of Sardinia.
The 7,000-ton USS Hartford hit the rocky ocean floor with such impact that
rudders, sonar and other electronic equipment were severely damaged. It is
receiving temporary repairs before being sailed back to Virginia for a full
refit.
The enormous vessel, 362ft long and carrying Tomahawk cruise missiles,
possibly with nuclear warheads, ran aground just after midnight on October
25. The US Navy kept the accident secret until relatives of the crew let
details slip. (© The Times, London)
Peter Popham in Rome
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